Why not try a few different types and see which one you like afterall your the one who is going to drive it.

Having had e class as company cars I was given a 220 cdi quite fastest enough for europe anything bigger then you are asking for points on your licence.

Will try a few different models out, but I will certainly look for something with comfort and a bit of "omph" as that is what I like. The E 320 cdi seems a good idea though, so shall have to go and get a test drive arranged. Thanks

Avoid mid-90s to mid-2000s models due to rust problems, but then it sounds like you are going for a later model anyway. Maybe check the Merc forums for guidance? E.g:

forums.mercedesclub.org.uk/

www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=94187

Rust has not gone away some B class cars are riddled with rust as are some E and C class cars 18months old.A report in last weeks Autobild puts the B class as having one of the worst rust problems it as ever seen.A UK E class from 2002 to 2008 E211 were the best made cars they tried to rectify their reputation in the UK and Germany but later cars appear to have had a relapse in quality and is reflected in sales dropping like a stone with BMW and Audi jumping in on the quality bandwagon.