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Mercedes-Benz - E 300 (1996)
Welcome to an in‑depth look at the **Mercedes‑Benz E 300**, a luxury sedan that blended performance, comfort, and cutting‑edge technology for over two decades.
Whether you’re a first‑time buyer, a seasoned collector, or simply curious about the “Mercedes‑Benz E 300 price” landscape, this guide will help you understand how a 1996 model stacks up, what a 1996 Mercedes‑Benz E 300 worth is today, and why used Mercedes‑Benz E 300 price remains consistently competitive in a crowded market.
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### Key Specifications – A Quick Reference
View the full spec list
- Model Year: 1996 (available through 2008)
- Engine: 2.9L Twin‑Turbocharged inline‑6 (in 1996/1998 models) / 3.2L Twin‑Turbo inline‑6 (post‑2000)
- Power: 240–285 hp (depending on year & location)
- Torque: 280–310 lb·ft
- Transmission: 4‑speed automatic (early years) / 5‑speed manual (standard) / 6‑speed automatic (advanced models)
- Drive: Rear‑wheel drive, optional all‑wheel drive (W4) in later models
- Fuel Type: Premium gasoline (95 octane or higher)
- Dimensions: Length 188.8 in. | Width 70.8 in. | Height 59.9 in.
- Wheelbase: 112.1 in.
- Cargo Capacity: 6.4 ft³ (standard) up to 19 ft³ with seats folded (in 1996‑2000)
- Fuel Economy: 18 mpg city / 22 mpg highway (early models) / 17 mpg city / 20 mpg highway (late models)
- Standard Features:*
- Power‑steering, power brakes, HVAC, cruise control
- Optional premium audio, navigation, adaptive headlights
- Airbag system (dual‑airbag, side‑airbag added in later years)
- Leather V‑cut seats, comfort package, multi‑zone climate control
- Optional Packages:*
- Premium sound system, Ti‑hole alloy wheels, Ethernet Controller, Signature Comfort Package, EPIC (Early 2000s)
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### Depreciation Insight – How the Mercedes‑Benz E 300 Ages
The luxury sedan’s depreciation is a critical factor for anyone evaluating the “used Mercedes‑Benz E 300 price” or wondering how much value a 1996 model holds today. Here’s a realistic snapshot:
| Year Since Purchase | Typical Depreciation | Typical Remaining Value |
|----------------------|----------------------|------------------------|
| 1st year | 15–20 % | 80–85 % of original listing |
| 3–5 years | 30–40 % | 60–70 % of original listing |
| 8–10 years | 55–65 % | 35–45 % of original listing |
| 15+ years (collectible) | 60–70 % (retains) | 30–40 % of original listing |
**Key points:**
- **Rapid early loss**: Typically loses 15‑20 % of its value in the first year, a standard trend for most premium vehicles.
- **Mid‑life stability**: Between 3–5 years, depreciation slows, leaving owners a resilient asset (~65 % residual value).
- **Long‑term steadfastness**: Models older than 10 years can hold 35‑40 % of their original price owing to low mileage, proper maintenance, and proven reliability—a reason why the "Mercedes‑Benz E 300 depreciation" curve flattens in the second decade.
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### What Is a 1996 Mercedes‑Benz E 300 Worth?
If you’re investigating the **Mercedes‑Benz E 300 1996 price**, it helps to remember that “what is a 1996 Mercedes‑Benz E 300 worth” is influenced by:
1. **Mileage** – Low mileage (≤ 50,000 mi) can push prices toward the higher end of the market segment.
2. **Condition** – Complete service history, original paint, and no major body damage add value.
3. **Optional features** – Vehicles equipped with premium sound, navigation, or the Signature Comfort Package tend to command a premium.
4. **Geographic demand** – In markets with a strong preference for German engineering (e.g., North America, Western Europe), prices may trend higher.
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