The seller of this week’s classic car spotlight claims this E320 wagon hails from “The golden era of Mercedes.” Let’s delve into whether this statement holds true and if its asking price reflects its potential as a savvy investment.
While the idea of living in a van might have once carried negative connotations, it has now transformed into a desirable lifestyle for adventurers. This shift has fueled industries dedicated to van conversions, turning vehicles like Mercedes Sprinters and Ford Transits into mobile exploration hubs. Interestingly, older vehicles are also finding their place in this trend, exemplified by a 1995 Ford Aerostar conversion we recently discussed. Although not designed for extreme off-roading, its concept of a getaway van resonated, even if its $16,500 price tag didn’t quite hit the mark with commentators who pointed out its age and lack of modern amenities.
In the automotive investment world, predicting future classics can be a gamble. Some bets pay off handsomely, like those who recognized the enduring appeal of the Porsche 911 early on. Others, like buyers of the 1976 Cadillac Eldorado convertibles marketed as ‘the last,’ haven’t always seen the same returns. The question then arises: where do older Mercedes wagons, like this 1995 Mercedes-Benz E320 three-row, fit into this investment landscape?
Drawing parallels to the preceding W123 series, which has seen significant appreciation, there’s a compelling argument to be made for the W124 E-Class wagons as rising classics. If you’re considering investing in a vehicle, securing a well-maintained example is paramount, and this E320 appears to be a strong contender. With 142,000 miles indicated, the advertisement emphasizes meticulous upkeep and care. It lists a series of recently replaced components, including expected wear items like shocks and suspension parts, alongside proactive maintenance such as a new window regulator and crucially, a replacement of the often-problematic engine wiring harness.
This wiring harness is integral to the 3.2-liter M104 inline-six engine, the very heart of the E320. This double-overhead-cam powerplant delivers 217 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque, channeled through a smooth four-speed Mercedes automatic transmission to the rear wheels. The current owner attests to its “silky smooth” operation, a testament to its renowned Mercedes engineering.
Aesthetically, this E320 wagon also presents itself admirably. The black paintwork retains a deep shine, and the bumpers and rocker trim show no signs of weathering or sun damage. The distinctive “phone dial” alloy wheels are also reported to be in excellent condition, free from curb rash and fitted with tires showing ample tread depth.
Stepping inside, the cabin echoes the exterior’s well-maintained condition. The durable MBTex upholstery is in excellent shape, a hallmark of Mercedes’ robust material choices. Perhaps surprisingly for its age, the warm wood trim that adorns the center console is also remarkably well-preserved. Overall, the interior appears complete and undamaged, and notably, this wagon includes the sought-after third-row seating, enhancing its practicality.
The seller aptly describes this clean-title wagon as a “Coming of age classic,” emphasizing its “Super rare” status and “Beautiful car” aesthetics. This aligns with the growing sentiment that the W124 series is poised for value appreciation in the classic car market. The crucial question now becomes: what is the right price to invest in this potentially appreciating classic before values climb further?
This brings us to the wagon’s asking price of $9,999. Is this a reasonable and potentially astute investment in a Mercedes from what many consider a golden era? Or does this price signal that the window of opportunity for affordable W124 wagons might be closing? That is for you to decide.
This 1995 Mercedes-Benz E320 Wagon listing can be found on Central New Jersey Craigslist.
