1989-1993 Mercedes-Benz 300TE: Older but practically perfect

July 6, 10:48 AMAutomotive ExaminerKyle Busch

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It has classic charm, enhance, and true practicality. The Mercedes-Benz 300TE
goes to show that you can have your cake and eat it too!

When you read Mercedes’ advertisement that a car over 15 years of age 
is “a unique opportunity to acquire what is the next best thing to a new 124-series
estate,” it is understandable that Mercedes would talk up its used stock, but can
such a claim really be true?

In this case, the claim does indeed ring true. The 300TE was available from
1989 until 1993. It was equipped with a 3-liter straight 6-cylinder engine
making 185 hp.

Move the controls with your fingers and you feel their firm action and a
reminder of quality with every use. Furthermore, when you turn the key in
the ignition (no electronic key fob and start button here!), you hear the clean,
smooth running heft of the straight six.

On the inside, the front bucket seats are wide and comfortable for long
distance travel, and the large and stocky controls are laid out logically. The
deep tones of the carpet and the Zebrano wood dash inlays make the interior
slightly homely but a very reassuring place to be. This Mercedes wagon can
haul much cargo (an alternative to today’s SUV) and it has an extra rearward
facing seat to transport up to seven. The tall greenhouse roofline provides a
sense of space and good outward visibility.

On the outside, the 300TE has understated looks with sturdy door handles,
bumpers, and a roof rack. The strong body shell and sturdy sheet metal cannot
be dismissed. It definitely has the “look of quality” all the way!

On the road, the 300TE moves without stress or strain. It genially
winds itself up in a relaxed manner. When you plant your right foot
on the accelerator, the response can be described as immediate and
aggressive but not overly rapid. Expect about 19 mpg in the city and
about 25 mpg on the highway.

Do you need an SUV that can haul cargo, but you do not want to spend an
arm and a leg? Do you want to buy a vehicle from a company that you know
will be around in years to come? Why not consider this former SUV? You
should be able to a Mercedes 300TE for under $6,000.

Kyle Busch is the author of “Drive the Best for the Price…” He
welcomes your comments or car questions at his auto web site:
www.DriveTheBestBook.com.

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