* Engine Type: The 1997 E320 was equipped with a six-cylinder engine. These engines are generally designed to run well on regular gasoline.
* Owner's Manual: The most accurate answer lies in the owner's manual for your specific vehicle. It will clearly state the recommended fuel type.
* Engine Knock: If you hear a knocking or pinging sound when accelerating, it could be a sign of engine knock caused by using a lower-octane fuel than recommended. However, this is less common in these older Mercedes engines.
Here are some factors that could influence fuel recommendations:
* High-Performance Variants: If your E320 is a high-performance variant (like an AMG model), it might have a higher compression ratio and require premium fuel.
* Modifications: If you've made any modifications to your engine that increase its compression ratio, you might need to use premium fuel.
* Environmental Considerations: In some areas, regulations may require premium fuel for older vehicles, even if they're not specifically designed for it.
To be sure, consult your owner's manual or check the fuel cap. It may indicate the recommended fuel type.
However, using premium gasoline in a car that doesn't need it won't hurt it. It's simply a waste of money.
