T-Roll

I have a 1998 C280 Sport with 193,000 miles on it, in what I would consider "good" condition, not mint. As a side project / hobby, I am considering overhauling it into a replica C43 AMG, and figured I'd ask you guys on this board what that would primarily entail. Thank you in advance for your feedback. Here are some questions I'm pondering:

1. How different is the stock suspension on a same year C280 Sport and C43?
2. Both cars are W202s, right? Can the cosmetic differences outside of the car be purchased separately and installed, or are there literally structural differences I need to consider?
3. How much would a used, stock C43 motor run me?

Thank you,
T-Roll

C43AMG

Here are your answers :

#1) night and day difference
#2) bolt them right on
#3) anywhere from 2800.00 - 4500.00.......but you have to buy the tranny and the ecu...more $'s.....then you have to upgrade the brakes...more $'s

My advice..........buy a used C43....by the time you buy all of this...and then pay to have it installed, you will have spent enough to buy the used C43.

T-Roll

Thank you for your input. I should have stated: the C280 Sport has sentimental value, so that is why I'd consider spending extra finances & time on it, verses just buying a used C43 AMG (which was a good suggestion, but doesn't satisfy me keeping the car). This is solely a side project.

C43AMG

Then you are looking at a 10-15k investment.Even then, whenever its worked on you are going to ave to tell the mechanic ( unless you do your own work) all the modifications you have done to the car.I still don't get this - why not keep this one stock and go buy the C43?You are looking at buying one for 9-12k and the headaches and transplants are done.My personal opinion , you are taking on a headache to build a Frankenstein MB.Good luck with your "project".

C43AMG

Let me add another thing you'll need-a complete exhaust system for the C43 motor also.

T-Roll

Hey! This is why I'm asking these questions...your feedback is essentially, "You'd be crazy to take on such an undertaking, buddy", which has been noted and is appreciated.

Maybe I will just restore it.

As much as I love C43s, I don't want one, or I'd go buy one. I'm very pleased with my E55. I was mainly considering how I could "honor" my little C280 Sport the most efficient and effective way, and restoring it to its original condition might just be the answer.

C43AMG

Hopefully I gave you some good information in regards to your "project".Good luck with whichever route you go!