03 Jan 08
7. Mercedes E-Class (1995-2002)
Theoretically, the E-Class is classed as an executive car rather than a luxury model, but given its size, comfort and prestige factor, it's a more-than-worthy contender in this list. And since the estates are the most popular second-hand purchases, used E-Class saloons really are very affordable.
Mercedes E-Class
The W210-series E-Class suffered a number of build-quality problems, but if you find a good rust-free example, it should have been de-bugged by now. With its twin circular headlamps, it's ageing well and there's a huge variety of models to choose from. The four- and five-cylinder diesels are best left to the taxi drivers, and the four-cylinder petrol models aren't much quicker, but the smooth six-cylinder units are good all-rounders.
Road Test: Mercedes E-Class
