I have an E series (1984 to 1987) MIJ Fender P.
I’ve read from several sources that during this period the USA Fender Factory ceased production for a move from Fullerton to Corona, and all the parts were shipped to Fuji-Gen for assembly, and all the USA and MIJ guitars from that period are identical.
SPOILER ALERT - I don’t know if it’s true or not, it’s just what I’ve read.
Dating the E series can’t be narrowed to closer than 84 - 87, apart from the fact that I know mine was bought in 1985 so I know it’s either an '84 or an '85.
As for quality and playability, I have a 2000 Made in China Squier Affinity P that I paid £81 for, and it plays just great.
The pickup and tuners are a bit rubbish but the rest of it is great.
In my view they are all good instruments.
Some may need tweaking and replacement hardware to get the best out of them, but the basis of a good instrument is there in all of them.