Hi everyone -

New to the forums, but not to MB. Am currently looking for a newer C class, 2004-07. Am definitely looking for a sedan with AWD, but aside from those two items, I'm not exactly sure what to go for and what I should avoid.

Doing some research has led me to believe that model years 2004-05 seemed to be the best years. I've found some 04's and 05's, but also a goodly amount of 06's and 07's. Any issues with the 06's and 07's that that would deter a buyer?

Have been reading some about the 2.6l and the 3.2l that come with the 04's and 05's (C240 and C320). Is the 240 sufficient enough for power, or is the 320 better? Any big differences in the engines making one better than the other? It's a LOT easier to find 240's than 320's - they're a bit more sparse. How about gas mileage between the two?

I also see there's the C280 as well. Don't know a lot about the 280 ...

I'm open to all opinions, counsel and advice. I'm also strongly considering purchasing an extended warranty when I find one that I want to purchase. IYO, is there a difference between the warranties that the dealer would offer you as compared to some reputable online warranty companies that you could purchase separately?

Thanks for your time, everyone - hope to be a member with an actual vehicle in the near future!

 

The C240 lacks power.... You would be much more pleased with the C280 or 320 in 4Matic. I have owned a C240 prior to my S430 and now my current 2005 C230K. The C230 has more power than the C240 and it is noticeable. If I were you, I would stick to a C280/C320 or even a C350 in W203 form if you can find one.

 

The C280 motor is the same motor as the w204 C300. If you can find one in your budget get the C280 4Matic over the 320 (you wanted AWD?). If not in your price range then get the C320. There is a significant power difference (noticeable) from the 240.

 

Old school 320 M112 FTW!
No balance shaft problems, runs forever.
Tried and true.

Stay away from M272.
http://www.topclassactions.com/lawsu...e-class-action

C240 just makes me scratch my head.
In 2002, when I bought my car, it had about 30 less HP stock,
used more fuel and cost at least another 5-10 grand.
Now they sell for about the same as a used coupe.

 

because people wanted the smoothness of the v6 instead of a out-going lawnmower sounding i-4 plus the sedan or wagon offer more passenger space and entry level luxury. no offense to m111 owners.

240 still offered enough torque to get up and go. you don't buy a 240 and expect it to go fast.

280 is of course a better choice. m272 3.0L and performs nearly identical to the 320. Plus the facelift inside and out.

the 06-07 C280 4-matic is the way to go here.

 

Thanks, everyone, for the helpful replies. I'm curious ... how widespread were these balance shaft failures? I've heard from enough others on another forum to be somewhat concerned. Any way to know if it was replaced with the newer version without pulling an MVI?

Appreciate your help!

 

Hi everyone: Have my eye on an '04 C320 4Matic with 33k. They're asking 16.9k ... think they're a little high. Would you advise to get a PPI ... what do you think of the price?