Quality and style with a practical edge. Whatever the age and mileage, you can buy with confidence. These are cars that will last you many years: star quality indeed.

Some estate cars make a fashion statement. Some estate cars are practical load-luggers. But only one estate car can do both: the Mercedes E-class. There's a wide choice of examples on the used market - many of them at affordable prices. The kind of money you'd pay for a plus, late model Ford or Vauxhall. Viewed in this light, the practical E-class with its impressive build quality, enduring style and rock-solid residuals, makes a lot of sense.

MERCEDES BENZ E CLASS HISTORY

Throughout the 1980s, the Mercedes TE Estates were seen as the classiest station wagons you could buy. By the end of the decade, there was a choice of five engines: 2.0 or 2.3-litre four cylinder units, 2.8 and 3.0-litre six cylinder engines and a 2.5-litre diesel. The 3.0-litre petrol unit was also offered in 24-valve form with optional on-demand 4MATIC four-wheel drive. In October 1992, the 200TE gained a 16v head, while the 230TE was replaced by a 220TE model. Likewise, the 300TE variants gave way to a single 320TE model. These badge designations didn't last long, replaced in August 1993 by the new gradings introduced for the first generation of E-class models, almost identical to their predecessors apart from minor cosmetic changes. These lasted until 1996 when they were replaced by an all-new range of second generation models. Launched in June 1996, the new line-up initially offered buyers a choice of four cylinder E200 or E230 models. In March 1997, six cylinder E300 turbo diesel and E320 V6 petrol variants were added. In September 1997, a V6 E240 model replaced the E230 and a V8 4.3-litre E430 petrol flagship was introduced. Most second generation E-class estates came with three trim options: Classic, Elegance and Avantgarde. In August 1999, the cars received a minor facelift and a common rail E320CDI turbo diesel model replaced the E300TD. A year later, a supercharged engine was installed in the entry-level E200 and the E240 given a 2.6-litre petrol unit.

WHAT DO I GET FOR MY MONEY?

Class and quality - in equal measure. The build quality is unrivalled -and so is the load space on offer.

WHAT PRICE AM I LOOKING AT?

The TE Estate range from the late 1980s/early 1990s is now available at real bargain-basement prices but they should still represent solid value for the money. More common post-1993 First generation E-class examples start with the E200. The earliest L to N-reg E200s are around £4,000-£6,000, with equivalent E220s at £4,500-£7,000, E320s at £5,700-£8,700 and E300Ds at between £5,500-£7,000. Second generation E-class examples again start with the E200. For 1996 P to 1999 T-platers, the span is around £6,250-£8,325, with 1996 P registered E230s at between £7,025-£7,200. 1997 R-1999 T plated E240s cost £6,975-£8,575, 1997 P to 1999 T-plated E320s are £7,575-£10,450. 1997 R to 1999 T-plated E430s retail at between £8,775 and £11,025 and E300TDs (1997 P to 1999T-plates) are between £7,800 and £10,675.

WHAT SHOULD I LOOK OUT FOR?

Very little goes wrong. Leather upholstery, air conditioning, automatic transmission and avoiding dull non-metallic colours help at resale time. Pay extra for cars that come with a complete service history and the peace of mind of the Mercedes Signature Used Car Programme.

HOW DOES IT DRIVE?

For long distances, these cars are ideal, with effortless cruising and low noise levels. The diesels are surprisingly good, explaining why they accounted for such a large proportion of sales.

BY JONATHAN CROUCH

PARTS INFORMATION

(approx based on a 1994 E320 excl Vat) Front brake pads are around £55, an exchange exhaust (including catalyst) is about £1000. A headlamp is about £185. An oil filter is around £6.50 and a windscreen is around £140.