Ask the Car People.SM


Buying a Used C-Class

3 messages,  Last post on Jun 30, 2008 at 6:54 AM

You are in the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Forum.

What is this discussion about? Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Car Buying,, Sedan

Messages Page 1 of 1

  • All Messages Displayed

#1 of 3 Need Advice: Used 01 to 07 C-Class by Weazell

May 30, 2008 (4:04 pm)

So, I'm looking to find a gently used C-Class sedan in the 2001 - 2007 model years. (I understand the design changed in 08 and that makes them a bit pricier.) Here's my wish list / questions:
 
1. If the 01-07 models have roughly the same exterior design, were there any improvements through those years that make any later models more desirable?
 
2. I have a Scion tc that I'll be looking to trade in (Blue Book trade-in is around $10,000) and hope to keep payments under $300 per month. I think that'll mean a sales price of $25,000 or lower. Any things related to that to keep in mind?
 
3. I don't need all the bells and whistles a Mercedes can provide but beyond the standard things like A/C, AT and stuff, I'd probably like as many of the following as I could snag:
 
* Sunroof
* Trip computer (but don't need GPS)
* Bluetooth connection to take calls through the car speakers.
* Premium stereo (lots of thump)
* Satellite radion
* iPod compatible (through a jack, at least, so I don't have to use one of those dang FM transmitter deals any longer)
 
4. And with gas prices being what they are, I want to avoid models that might not get the usual 20-25 MPG that most C-Class sedans seem to get. Are they all pretty much the same, mileage wise?
 
5. And what else should I be considering?
 
Thanks for your help!
 
Peter

#2 of 3 Re: Need Advice: Used 01 to 07 C-Class [Weazell] by afif

May 30, 2008 (11:12 pm)

Replying to: Weazell (May 30, 2008 4:04 pm)
Some advice for you after having bought 3 mercedes:
 
-Do not buy the earlier year mercedes-the reliability of the more recent years seems to have improved per Consumer Reports
-Consider finding a new 2007 C230 if you absolutely must have a mercedes. There are many dealers who have them sitting in the back lots. I have to admit that I have driven the C230 and I am not impressed with the performance.
-My 2002 C320 recently needed a new transmission. It was covered under an extended warranty and had broken down at 99000 miles-I got lucky this time, but my car has been plagued with problems.
-Good luck....but be careful...you might find the new Honda Coupe fully loaded to be a better car at a better price

#3 of 3 Ideas on 01-07 MB by pfweintraub

Jun 30, 2008 (6:54 am)

I have a 2002 C320 wagon I bought on E-bay for $13600. It had 74000 miles on it when I bought it about a year and a half ago and now has just crossed 90K. I love the car, routinely get 21-22 city and 26 -27 highway. It was not a pampered car, but well maintained and I drive it like a normal car and not a baby. Maintenance has not been a problem. I put Michelin 90k miles hydroedge tires on it and the handling is impressive, acceleration is mind blowing for a little engine and we love the solidity and handling. Only problem I have is that they 320 wagon was not imported after 2003 so I would have to go up to an E body or down to a 240 if I want a new one.
 
PW

Messages Page 1 of 1

  • All Messages Displayed
To POST a message, please Sign In.

Advertisement

Browse by Category

Browse by Vehicle
   View All Vehicles

Browse by Board
Browse by Topic
View All Topics

Edmunds Community

Advertisement