MERCEDES 320 (2001)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 37 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
70%
Total Tests (2024)
37
Avg Mileage
99,359 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,050
Is the 2001 MERCEDES 320 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 12 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the MERCEDES brand average of 87%.
At 23 years old, 70% of MERCEDES 320s from 2001 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 37 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 99,359 miles.
How does the 2001 MERCEDES 320 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2001 MERCEDES 320 has 99,359 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 170,200 miles for a 23-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a MERCEDES 320?
The most reliable year is the 1994 model with a 91% MOT pass rate, while the 2009 model has the lowest at 71%. The 2001 sits between the two at 70%.
How much does a 2001 MERCEDES 320 cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
MERCEDES 320 by Year
Checking a specific MERCEDES 320?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2001 MERCEDES 320
The 2001 MERCEDES 320 is a performance with a 3199cc diesel engine. 37 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2001, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 99,359 miles at 23 years old, MERCEDES 320 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2001 MERCEDES 320 Fuel Costs
The 3199cc diesel engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2001 MERCEDES 320?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,050 (£171/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 70% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MERCEDES 320 Reliability Trend
Older MERCEDES 320s tend to have better MOT pass rates than newer ones, with an average decline of 5 percentage points across model years.
Buying a Used 2001 MERCEDES 320
At 23 years old, the MERCEDES 320 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 1994 model has the highest pass rate at 91%. Note: with only 37 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2001 MERCEDES 320
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- BMW 3 SERIES (2003) 78% pass rate (+8%) from 19,201 tests
- FIAT DUCATO (2003) 75% pass rate (+5%) from 6,010 tests
- BMW X5 (2003) 77% pass rate (+7%) from 3,953 tests
- PEUGEOT BOXER (2003) 75% pass rate (+5%) from 3,531 tests