1990 Mercedes-Benz 300-Class Reviews, Pricing & Specs









































































































































































































































































































Overview
For 1990, the versatile Mercedes-Benz 300-class formed the backbone of automaker's midsize lineup. Trim packages included a 300CE coupe...
For 1990, the versatile Mercedes-Benz 300-class formed the backbone of automaker's midsize lineup. Trim packages included a 300CE coupe with a new single-cam 3.0-liter, 6-cylinder engine that pumped out a peppy 217 hp, and a 300SL convertible with a 3.0-liter, 228-hp engine. Other models, including the 300E, SE, and SEL sedans, and the 300SL and the 300TE wagon, came with a 177-hp 3.0-liter single-cam engine.
A 4-speed automatic transmission was standard across all models of the 300-class, as was a new fuel-injection system, anti-lock brakes, and airbags for the driver and passenger. Power windows, power door locks, air conditioning, and a cassette player were also standard for all models.
Options included a five-speed automatic overdrive and a sunroof (except for the SL convertible model, of course). Leather seats were standard on the 300E, SE, SEL, and E 4MATIC sedans, on the SL convertible, and on the CE Coupe. They were available as an option on the other models.
What owners say
"Overall, drivers have a strong appreciation for the 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300-Class, particularly for its build quality, performance, and classic luxury features. Many owners love the smooth performance and powerful engine, along with the stylish and comfortable interior. However, some common concerns include high maintenance costs, the requirement for premium gasoline, and occasional expensive repairs that can detract from the overall enjoyment of driving. Overall, owners feel a sense of pride in owning this classic car."
We found this car the same day it had been traded in at a Mercedes dealer; they hadn't even cleaned it yet. It is a Japan LHD import, with 47,000 original miles (which is RIDICULOUSLY low), a Webasto engine oil heater, heated seats, the original Becker radio, and a flawless interior. Needless to say we snatched this sucker off the lot before the dealer knew what hit him. A couple of spark plug wires, a tube of grease, a window regulator, and a windshield washer pump later, this car is the most reliable we own and drives like it just came off the lot. It has the bulletproof Mercedes-Benz M103 engine with no oil leaks, and an idle that will pass the quarter test. I learned to parallel park in one of these....They may lumber a bit, and yes the gas mileage is never wonderful, but this is the best riding/driving highway cruiser I have ever driven.
July 26, 20111990, 300 CE with 12 valves developing 188hp, 4 gears auto transmition, 214 000 km, first owner, black exterior and interior, full leather interior, A/C, power windows (all around), power sunroof, 18 inch AMG alloy wheels, -40 mm H&R lowering springs, showroom condition, ...
March 23, 2008This car looks awesome. I love the classic Mercedes exterior, but in a coupe! The interior is traditional Mercedes, but with a bit of added luxury. Great choice of materials. Nice strong engine. Good road feel and gives you much confidence. Handles well for an older car. Great visibility! A few expensive repairs were needed, which always decreases the enjoyment.
December 6, 2011What owners say
We found this car the same day it had been traded in at a Mercedes dealer; they hadn't even cleaned it yet. It is a Japan LHD import, with 47,000 original miles (which is RIDICULOUSLY low), a Webasto engine oil heater, heated seats, the original Becker radio, and a flawless interior. Needless to say we snatched this sucker off the lot before the dealer knew what hit him. A couple of spark plug wires, a tube of grease, a window regulator, and a windshield washer pump later, this car is the most reliable we own and drives like it just came off the lot. It has the bulletproof Mercedes-Benz M103 engine with no oil leaks, and an idle that will pass the quarter test. I learned to parallel park in one of these....They may lumber a bit, and yes the gas mileage is never wonderful, but this is the best riding/driving highway cruiser I have ever driven.
July 26, 20111990, 300 CE with 12 valves developing 188hp, 4 gears auto transmition, 214 000 km, first owner, black exterior and interior, full leather interior, A/C, power windows (all around), power sunroof, 18 inch AMG alloy wheels, -40 mm H&R lowering springs, showroom condition, ...
March 23, 2008This car looks awesome. I love the classic Mercedes exterior, but in a coupe! The interior is traditional Mercedes, but with a bit of added luxury. Great choice of materials. Nice strong engine. Good road feel and gives you much confidence. Handles well for an older car. Great visibility! A few expensive repairs were needed, which always decreases the enjoyment.
December 6, 2011This car is the member E-Class type of Mercedes Benz, thus no doubt for its luxury and convenience. This car has 2.3L 4 cylinder engine which is very powerful. But the suspension is not softer as the Masterpiece generation, but still convenience fro everyday driving. The interior is very luxury, with electric seat, leather seat and automatic transmission, makes this car is the most luxury European sedan in 90's era. and the most important is this type of Mercedes Benz use conventional engine (less electrical) makes it easy to maintain.
January 10, 2010This car is a classic Mercedes Benz. I have 2 problems with this car before and I still do. But when the car was actually working, it was the best Benz on the road. This car was very fun to drive. You get a lot of attention. The sound system is very clear and loud.
October 24, 2009I'm sure it was an excellent car early in it's life, but once it hit 250,000 miles my Dad had to keep it alive.
March 18, 2008I owned a 1990 300E from Sep. 2011 to Dec. 2012. I bought the car with around 220,000 miles and though it was far from perfect due to age and mileage I have never been more impressed by a vehicle and I have owned a few Bimmers also. The build quality and sheer durability of almost every component of this car still blows my mind. The doors shut with a vault-like slam of solidity. Everything looked, felt, and smelled of high quality even after 22 years. I replaced a window regulator, heater blower fan, few suspension components, and maybe a few other small things. Car handled very well with the classic big Benz spring-loaded cloud type feel. This is an incredible car on the highway. Words just are not enough. If only they still made them like this, I would buy another in a heartbeat.
April 20, 2013The car has a sleek exterior, mostly sharp lines gives it a perstegious look. The tires are wide to have a better grip on the road. the engine has a fine rumble to it and its a solidly built vehicle. The cons are that parts are expenisve and it requires premium gasoline. The moon roof makes it fun to drive in the summer so no need for AC.
January 8, 2009Just bought one with only 88,000 miles. The previous owner (original) really took great care of this car. Everything works, exterior and interior look better than my 6 year old car. Drives smooth, with very few rattles. A joy to own.
April 20, 2008I loved everything about this car except for the cost of gas and the type of gas needed for it to run properly. This vehicle had the build quality that made it something I was proud to own. Mercedes knows how to make a vehicle!
October 25, 2009Trims & specs
Base MSRP $54,800 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $43,300 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $58,100 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $50,300 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $44,200 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $58,150 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $70,300 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $61,400 | Seating 4 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $62,100 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |







