I am interested in a roof rack for my 1998 Mercedes-Benz C280. I have found Thule makes a roof mounted rack with a fit kit and bike mount for my car but it is close to $500. I would like to know if there is any other options out there that you may know of or a cheaper resource for Thule or Yakima. I have also went to the dealer and the parts counter rep advised me the factory racks will not work on my car as I do not have threaded factory mounts in my roof. Have you heard of this?

Regards,
Christopher