Introduction to Car Consideration

When deciding on a new or used car, the process can be overwhelming, especially as a young professional navigating life with a family. In this journey, I reflect on my past car purchases, with a particular emphasis on my three Mercedes-Benz models.

Initial Car Selection Choices

Back in 2000, as a young professional with a family, my primary concern was safety. In my search, I casually looked at Infinity, test drove a BMW and an Acura, as well as a Range Rover. After these experiences, I found the SUV had rollover issues, the BMW was too expensive for the value it offered, and the Range Rover had a poor record of breakdowns.

Among these options, the Mercedes-Benz stood out. It wasn’t because it was the most appealing, but more so because it seemed out of our price range. Yet, the safety features and overall reliability of the Mercedes intrigued me. Over the years, I have considered several other car brands, including Lexus, due to their reliability and luxury.

Logging into the Car Industry Expert

Today, as a frequent car buyer, I have ahead of me a wealth of knowledge about different cars. Whenever I purchase a car, I always speak with the service writers and mechanics at dealerships to get insight into the best years and least problematic models to buy. I also consult independent shops.

I am currently the proud owner of a new Mercedes Sprinter diesel and three Mercedes-Benz cars with the 320 engines, known for their incredible longevity of up to 300-400,000 miles with relatively few problems. My job requires extensive driving, which makes maintaining a trusty car essential. My ultimate goal is just to put in the necessary homework. Every car manufacturer produces both great and bad cars. It is my job to ensure the car I buy is a reliable one.

Mercedes-E Class Journey

Over the years, I've owned three Mercedes-Benz E-Class cars, all of them used but with varying experiences.

My first E-Class was a 1989 300E, which I purchased in 1996. I loved its color and upholstery, and it came with a host of extra features. I traded a BMW 5 from 1989 for this Mercedes in 1996. The car was so desirable that there was a brand new E-Class cabriolet in the showroom at the time, which I had seen on holiday in Spain a few years prior. I loved the way it looked and had a resale value of nearly ￡50,000 if new.

For my second car, I chose a 1997 E220 cabriolet, which I still own. I was entirely focused on an E-class cabriolet and did not consider any other cars at the time. This car has charming influences of the past, with a unique and different look from most current cars.

My latest Mercedes saloon from 2013 was a relatively recent model and an ex-Mercedes car owned by one of their employees. Described as a 'pensioner's toy', it was well-equipped with rear TVs, a DVD player, and other features. I put in about two months researching this car, and it just felt right for me.

Additional Car Brands in Play

In between the two E-Class saloons, I owned a Honda, a Toyota, and even an Audi GT. Each had its own unique appeal and fit my needs at different times. My approach is always to research extensively, considering a few reviews and buying online with the option for shipping. I also look at other brands such as BMW, Audi, and Porsche.

Conclusion

Purchasing a car is a significant decision, and one that requires extensive homework. From my experiences, I have learned the importance of prioritizing safety, reliability, and the overall value. The process can be complex, but with the right knowledge and approach, it can be a fulfilling journey. In the end, every car manufacturer has both great and bad cars, but with the right research, you can find the perfect car for your needs.