1999 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Good styling, clean lines - simplicity. Whereas the car is classified as a luxury car, the styling is not over-stated. This is the first vehicle that I have purchased used, there was a substantial manufacturer's warranty remaining that made the decision easier. Consumer Reports and other consumer rating groups have given Mercedes very high marks also.

When driving the car, it handles very, very well. Once in motion, the car wants to be driven - it is truly a driver's car. The feel of the vehicle on the road is unlike anything I have ever driven before - it is comfortable and almost seems like the vehicle is not in motion, the road bumps and noises are removed by a suspension that is firm but comfortable for the driver.

I can honestly say that this is the first vehicle that I feel safe in. The side air bags, the overall construction of the car surround me with a zone that I hope i will never have to use.

Having the car only a few weeks, I can only offer a few draw-backs. The CD changer (that is an option) is put into the trunk - a major inconvenience. And the telephone option is only an outdated, analog model by a single manufacturer. You would think that a high-class vehicle as this would offer an in-dash CD changer along with the tape player. While I also admire the fiber-optic wiring in the car, it does not allow a full integration of a phone system that is anything other than an outdated, analog model. The current, justified concerns of auto safety and cell phones must allow for other types of integrated phone installations.