Are Mercedes-Benz E320 4-Matics 99-2003 RELIABLE? Maintenance?

I have a 2004 Mercedes E320 4matic and I guess it has been somewhat reliable. I'm not going to lie, it has spent a lot of time in the shop. It's had some very costly repairs and I have only had the car for about a year. My parents have spent well over $2000 in repairs so far. When it's running properly the car performs like a dream. I would get a 2003 model out of the years you selected. Older benzes are trouble unless they have been maintained properly. Don't get me wrong the car is beautiful to look at but is VERY expensive to own.