Im interested in buying a 05 c230ss, I took my dad to the dealer yesterday and we looked at a base c230ss it was like 31,200. The only option it had was auto trans. Next to the Mb dealer was Lexus..So i browsed at the is300's they were like 34,100 loaded it had everything standard that Mb offered as a option. Like the Lexus sounds system ''power seats'' sunroof xenon headlamps heated seats and a whole lot of extras . Im in love with the 05 c230'ss but with all the options i want that car will be 39,120 without tax.My parents say its a waste for a 4'cylinder. But im not going to listen to them, but it is something to think about..Mb And Bmw dont even offer leather standerd its either leatherette or leather seating inserts. I can understand the hk audio or xenon's . But i guess its the bade car on mb's model line up? Anyone feel the same about the base price with no options?...Post a reply

 

39 fully loaded b4 taxes?? Where are you Puerto Rico?? lol....you must be quoting MSRP
which means you really should be able to get down to around 35-36 b4 taxes, then prolly back to 39 after taxes...fully loaded with every option, nav, bix, split rears, & al packages.

But to answer you original question...BOTH.

 

It sounds like the Lexus is a better value. If you like the MB more and don't mind dropping the extra dough for equivalent features, then go that route.

Pick the desired options and get one with that equipment, instead of attempting a retrofit. It will be easier, better and cost less.

Don't forget to get a LMT coupon.

 

The Lexus may be a better perceived value in terms of "extras", but if you've had a chance to drive both, you'll go w/ the C. You can load out the C230 and it shouldn't be any more than $38k list w/ nav...after discount it will be in the mid $30's.

 

Yeah, never go into a dealership willing to pay what the sticker says. I'm guessing this is your first new car purchase. Check out carsdirect.com's pricing for your zip code and aim to pay at least 500 under that. Don't deal with a commissioned salesman, go to the internet or fleet manager.

 

C230WZ is deifinately worth the $$$. looks better than the IS300 inside and out. its worth the money, i dont think your just paying for the name.

 

it's a good buy for a mercedes i think. and come on, it's a mercedes, you have got to pay something for the name. if mercedes sold cars as cheap as honda, the mercedes name would not be prestigious anymore.

 

And by the way, my brother has an IS300 and I got my parents into an 05 C230SS. The IS has a power advantage and can be modded easier with intakes, etc. It's reliability and resale is great, but it's also an outgoing style. But done right, it still gets looks. You can probably get a fairly loaded one for about $30K.
The C230 is better styled in my opinion now that it has the AMG look (although a bit more conservative in other areas) and has a classier interior. It's also going to be redesigned soon. I think the IS is aimed more at younger people, whereas the C has a wider appeal. Each car has some features not available on the other, but expect to pay about $3 to $4K more for a comparable MB depending on your area.

 

Both cars are in their twilite year and both are deeply discounted, don't go by list price.

 

GusGus:Heres the deal. I drove my 2005 c230 SS off the lot last friday. I paid $33,000, for Metallic Paint, Auto Tranny, Lighting Package, Sunroof Package, Entertainment Package and Heated Seats. If you want to smile everytime you have to drive to the store, how can you not buy the Mercedes? Each of the packages I bought has it's own little unique features as well. I hope this helps you make the right choice.

 

I looked at the is too but after dealer discounts, the 230k was a much better deal.

 

Be prepared for maintenance/repair expenses. I had to replace a new tire with a brand new tire. Total cost $299 at dealer as the Michelin Pilot Sport is not widely available.
***** ******

 

oh forgot bout that, it is true the maintenance is going to be expensive for the merecedes because the parts are expensive. Good thing is you are getting top quality tires. Unfortunately, I ran over a screw before 50 miles were up while backing up in my dealers parking lot (sidewall, michelin pilot sports on the brand new 230k) when I went for the free detail. Damn 240.00, what a waste.

 

If your looking for a better deal then a G35 is the best you can do. For 2005 they come with 300hp and a redsigned interior. you can get it loaded 35,000 sticker. If bang for buck is the most important thing this is the car to get.

Now if you want the Benz, you get a decent engine, German feel and all the mercedes characteristics for 35,000 give or take a few options. BUT A loaded C230 pretty much goes to 40,000 territory but you can get it down to about 37,000 probably. Which is still pretty good for a MB.

C230SS is a good overall buy. But option for option, engine for engine and dollar for dollar you get a WHOLE lot more with IS300 or G35 or other japanese cars.

 

Out the door tax lic etc.............................$37,000, I hope this is what you are saying....If not

 

No. Im talking without tax. 1000 under invoice.

 

Ouch........ Florida is big with lots of dealerships........

 

I think you could get 3-4000 below invoice plus cpot coupon of 1500 if you lease so maybe 34,000? Either way, your number seems very high...

 

Thank you for your post Calboy

 

A better option would be to hook up with that guy in Delaware that can get '05 C55's for $26,000.

 

I'm definitely doing that next time

 

I don't see the IS being that great of a value compared to the G35. The latter will just leave it in its dust trail, and the same goes with the C230. If performance is your priority, get the G35. As far as German parts being expensive? Yes they are, but that's the price of a German car owner.

I never leave the lot with a big smile just because I drive an MB. I will however, in a stretched S class with 12 chicks in bikinis . But of course that's not what happened.

 

If you only want the name recognition, or to let people know you have a snob car, get the Lexus.

The Mercedes is so much better in so many intagible ways...and you can get that car for a lot less than 39k.

 

IS300 are okay, but i'm not a big Toyota fan other than the Supra. Personally I'd go w/ the C230k for various reasons. Put the "reliability & resale" issue aside and test drive both, and you'll understand why ppl choose MB over Toyota. There's that "solid" feel unlike any other car.

 

i bought a C230k SS a month ago....VERY HAPPY WITH IT!