W203/CL203 Car Buyer's Guide - All you want to know and consider
Member
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 206
Likes: 1
From: Burbank
C230K
Whoa whoa whoa flashman.
Nowhere in my post did I say I had gotten reimbursed from an insurance company!
As a matter of fact I had paid cash for that car and only had the state minimum liability. So it was a total loss to me.
I sold the car for like 300 bucks because I was moving to Florida in a week.
I just reported it stolen to cover my *** from a ticket.
Got a call the next day and picked it up.
Also, the statute of limitations long went into effect on that incident ;-)
Nowhere in my post did I say I had gotten reimbursed from an insurance company!
As a matter of fact I had paid cash for that car and only had the state minimum liability. So it was a total loss to me.
I sold the car for like 300 bucks because I was moving to Florida in a week.
I just reported it stolen to cover my *** from a ticket.
Got a call the next day and picked it up.
Also, the statute of limitations long went into effect on that incident ;-)
Member
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 206
Likes: 1
From: Burbank
C230K
No prob Flashman, and I agree with your ethical opinion on the situation.
The ticket would have been reckless driving, I think, as I had taken a fast bend at a speed I would normally take it on my motorcycle.
The gar did a gracefull rearend slide to the left as I was turning to the right.
Being a FWD car I couldn't power out of it (unlike MBZs).
I spun the wheel to the left and the rear tires grabbed violently and I shot to the right.
I missed a huge natural gas main by a few inches.
It was surrounded by large concrete filled pipes, like you see around petrol station pumps.
Fortunately, there was a buildup of dirt around the pipe and this is what saved me. Flipping the car was actually good.
The front right wheel hit that mound and launched the car into the air in a twist, landing on the roof.... stopping motion, just a foot, from a 20 foot drop into a square sided rain drain!! ;-)
Thanked my angles on that one.
The ticket would have been reckless driving, I think, as I had taken a fast bend at a speed I would normally take it on my motorcycle.
The gar did a gracefull rearend slide to the left as I was turning to the right.
Being a FWD car I couldn't power out of it (unlike MBZs).
I spun the wheel to the left and the rear tires grabbed violently and I shot to the right.
I missed a huge natural gas main by a few inches.
It was surrounded by large concrete filled pipes, like you see around petrol station pumps.
Fortunately, there was a buildup of dirt around the pipe and this is what saved me. Flipping the car was actually good.
The front right wheel hit that mound and launched the car into the air in a twist, landing on the roof.... stopping motion, just a foot, from a 20 foot drop into a square sided rain drain!! ;-)
Thanked my angles on that one.
Newbie
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 23
Likes: 0
Need Help Buying new C320 Wagon ASAP
I'm currently driving a 528 wagon, and the lease is expiring.
Here in SoCal, Audi is having great deals on the A6, so I was planning on getting one until a dealer mentioned that Mercedes is promoting the old E class and the C class.
I found a great deal on a C Class wagon. ($1800 drive off, $500 month w/tax for 48/10K). I assume this is a good deal?
Any options you guys recommend? Sport package would add substantially to cost. Is it worth it? How about full leather seats?
Thanks in advance.
Newbii
Here in SoCal, Audi is having great deals on the A6, so I was planning on getting one until a dealer mentioned that Mercedes is promoting the old E class and the C class.
I found a great deal on a C Class wagon. ($1800 drive off, $500 month w/tax for 48/10K). I assume this is a good deal?
Any options you guys recommend? Sport package would add substantially to cost. Is it worth it? How about full leather seats?
Thanks in advance.
Newbii
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 1,230
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From: Gaithersburg, MD
2002 C240 6-spd (ret)
Re: get the leather...
Originally posted by Scylas
you wont regret it...
you wont regret it...
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 2,465
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From: SF Bay Area
2002 C230 K
Re: Need Help Buying new C320 Wagon ASAP
Originally posted by MBNewbii
Any options you guys recommend? Sport package would add substantially to cost. Is it worth it? How about full leather seats?
Thanks in advance.
Newbii
Any options you guys recommend? Sport package would add substantially to cost. Is it worth it? How about full leather seats?
Thanks in advance.
Newbii
Personally, I'd go with the sport package, but if cost is an issue you could probably get a different set of rims that would cost less but still differentiate the car from others on the road (although the C-wagon is still a rare beast).
Regarding the leather: the wagon should have leather seating surfaces with MB-Tex everywhere else - this is usually acceptable for most, plus if you have kids it should be a little easier to keep clean. Leather is included as part of the sport package - so if you do want leather and sportier rims - you'll probably break even going with the sport package - plus you'll get the upgraded suspension bits and the blue tinted windows.
Good luck shopping, BT
Newbie
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
C320 Wagon - Black C2 - v60 Phone and CD-Changer
I love my wagon!!!! The only option I got was the C2 package (sunroof and rain sensing wipers). Personaly I don't like the command and it doesn't seem worth the 3k they are asking for it. I would probably get the heated seets/headlamp washing system if I did it again. I added the changer and phone later. I don't like the VHP tires because they have to be replaced more often and don't do well in inclimate weather so I didn't get the sports package. I got mine for $36.5k and my monthly payment is just $550 /month ...not a big fan of the lease.
The Audi A6 is a great car! Cargo area is huge compared to the C320. It's a lot lighter and quicker, and you can get the Quattro and you don't have to worry about the fiber optics so replacing the head unit and stereo components is less painful.
A6 is a pretty good value. You can get the rear facing seats, but rear side airbags is only an option. You get a rear sunshade on the audi and the quattro is standard, and you can probably get it with full leather for right around $40k (I think it is about $43k MSRP with options). Warranty and scheduled maintenance is comprable. Don't know about lease options.
My Stepfather has an audi and parts are real expensive and hard to get. Parts availability and price seem much better for the MBs (may notbe an issue if you are thinking lease).
Don't know how helpful I've been, but they're both pretty good cars. I think if price is greatest concern, the C is a great deal and you won't be upset with what you get. If you need the space or the extra seating and a $40,000 car is well within your budget than the audi might be better suited.
The Audi A6 is a great car! Cargo area is huge compared to the C320. It's a lot lighter and quicker, and you can get the Quattro and you don't have to worry about the fiber optics so replacing the head unit and stereo components is less painful.
A6 is a pretty good value. You can get the rear facing seats, but rear side airbags is only an option. You get a rear sunshade on the audi and the quattro is standard, and you can probably get it with full leather for right around $40k (I think it is about $43k MSRP with options). Warranty and scheduled maintenance is comprable. Don't know about lease options.
My Stepfather has an audi and parts are real expensive and hard to get. Parts availability and price seem much better for the MBs (may notbe an issue if you are thinking lease).
Don't know how helpful I've been, but they're both pretty good cars. I think if price is greatest concern, the C is a great deal and you won't be upset with what you get. If you need the space or the extra seating and a $40,000 car is well within your budget than the audi might be better suited.
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 394
Likes: 1
From: Weston, FL
C230 Kompressor (02 Copupe)
hm..
I think Scylas has a C230, which has standard cloth. Most people w/ the sedans feel the standard leather inserts in the C240/320 are sufficient. I looked at the full leather seats side by side w/ the MB-Tex/leather when I bought my C240, and you're hard-pressed to tell them apart. The only visible differences are double stitching around the seat edges and headrests, and "gathered" door inserts instead of smooth. I would recommend saving the $$ for something else.
Member
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 127
Likes: 0
From: San Diego
C320 Sport Wagon
You didnt mention what the upfront cost of the wagon is and what money factor they are offering. You should be able to get the model for well under MSRP. The wagon is a great ride, but IMHO, blow off the sport option-ain't worth the money.
BTW I have a 530T originally leased and then regretably purchased-what a maintenace pain in the tail. Be glad you are getting out of it under lease warranty.
BTW I have a 530T originally leased and then regretably purchased-what a maintenace pain in the tail. Be glad you are getting out of it under lease warranty.
Newbie
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 23
Likes: 0
lease
total drive off around $1800 w/1st month. (no down payment)
48 monthly payments at $500 w/tax
price is $36000, $5000 under sticker.
AUDI: $2075 down, $400 month+tax, sticker $38,700
The main difference between the Audi and Mercedes is residual:
Audi about $17500
Mercedes about $22500
You think I could make anything by selling the Audi at leaseend?
48 monthly payments at $500 w/tax
price is $36000, $5000 under sticker.
AUDI: $2075 down, $400 month+tax, sticker $38,700
The main difference between the Audi and Mercedes is residual:
Audi about $17500
Mercedes about $22500
You think I could make anything by selling the Audi at leaseend?
Member
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 127
Likes: 0
From: San Diego
C320 Sport Wagon
The drive off price for the 320 looks good. Are you sure it's a 2001. It's my understanding that MB did not offer the C wagon until 2002. I picked mine up in April and as far as I know, the model had only been US available for about 8 mo's.
You won't make much more than residual on a 48 mo lease buy out, but MB historically has a higher term value hold. I'll bet if you press you can get the MB lease for a bit under $500.
I'm biased, but I scoped everything in the wagon market before buying my 320 and I am very happy with it. Pretty rare bird on the highway though---which is fine with me.
You won't make much more than residual on a 48 mo lease buy out, but MB historically has a higher term value hold. I'll bet if you press you can get the MB lease for a bit under $500.
I'm biased, but I scoped everything in the wagon market before buying my 320 and I am very happy with it. Pretty rare bird on the highway though---which is fine with me.
Member
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 229
Likes: 0
SL500
Hey MBNewbii,
My brother just bought a c240. To cut to the chase the cars final price was $33,332.30. He put a total of $1,801 down (includes 1st months payment), $477 Month including tax for 35 months (first month included in down). 12,000 miles a year. He is also located in Southern California. Your car costs 2,667.70 more, the price you have is a good deal for 3yrs, 12,000 miles per year NOT 4yrs, 10,000 miles.
My brother just bought a c240. To cut to the chase the cars final price was $33,332.30. He put a total of $1,801 down (includes 1st months payment), $477 Month including tax for 35 months (first month included in down). 12,000 miles a year. He is also located in Southern California. Your car costs 2,667.70 more, the price you have is a good deal for 3yrs, 12,000 miles per year NOT 4yrs, 10,000 miles.
Almost a Member!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 30
Likes: 0
I like my wagon alot. I have had it since September 2001. I like the looks, the performance, and that it's relatively rare. The only thing I hate is that I havent had a chance to perform my mods yet. The project is planned. Brabus & Carlsson do you hear me? I really don't understand why the wagon is not as popular as the sedan. I've heard the ratio of sedan to wagon is like 15 to 1. I'm actually okay with that, and call me perculiar, but I have always like the look of euro-wagons. I have had 2 passat wagons, as well, and I came close to getting the last generation BMW 5-series wagon. I'm glad I didn't do that because I hear the Tourings have issues. I think it all started when I saw the Original AMG hammer Wagon. If you remember or, have seen it, you'll understand what I'm saying
Member
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 127
Likes: 0
From: San Diego
C320 Sport Wagon
Wagon
Concur with Silver's post. I have zero issues with my Wagon. In fact other than having added Schatz tips to cover the twin down spouts-I plan to leave it as delivered. The little sucker really benefits from the e-engine and giving away only about 40+ lbs to the sedan. I understand that it is very popular in EU, but hasnt really developed a following on the US west coast. However, over the last month or so--am starting to sight them on a more reqular basis. I currently own a 530T which has been a maintenance pain including a $2K sunroof replace and a 5K+ tranny replacement at 109K miles--ack! On top of that BMW has been a tough nut to work with. Hope to see some more C-wagon posts -the info exchange is great.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 1,607
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From: On a hill overlooking San Francisco Bay
c230k, black, auto, c2 (let the sunshine in), Bose, leather, and CD
The A6 had the worst relibility rating of any car on the market. I think I read this in consumer reports, but I don't honestly remember. That would scare me away from it.
Beth
Beth
Almost a Member!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 30
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It's ironic you mention the sun-roof. That is exactly one of the components I was concerned about, the other was the electrical system. Another irony is that you mentioned that BMW was hard to work with. We have owned 3, 3-series cars (94-325I sport,96 328 sport, 97 328 sport) and 1 E-39 5-Series (98 528 sport). The reason we didn't go back to BMW, is because they were asking crazy prices for the X-5. They didn't really want to deal, we even spoke to BMW financial, of course they have customer loyalty incentives, which didn't really amount to much the last time around. They were a fair bit humbler with the 3's & 5's. We could have purchased another 5, but they are going to be changed soon. The 3 we still like them but, our last 5 was fully optioned so it would be like going backwards. MBZ- "E"Class, same deal new model right around the corner. ML I've heard the issues, didn't want to get "caught up".
I think we made the right decision by going with the C-Class Wagon, as it has the right amount of options for a decent price. The C-320 sedan was never really a consideration. Admittedly, I could have saved a great deal by waiting a while, but we picked ours up about 2weeks after they were released here in the US.
I think we made the right decision by going with the C-Class Wagon, as it has the right amount of options for a decent price. The C-320 sedan was never really a consideration. Admittedly, I could have saved a great deal by waiting a while, but we picked ours up about 2weeks after they were released here in the US.
Super Member
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 572
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From: Oro Valley, AZ
2001 C240 6spd
Leasing my C240....not sure if I like it. Lease terms: 4 years; 20000 miles per year. This is my first experience of leasing - I think I will purchase the next one. The monthly payment is about $100 less with leasing. But, at the end of the lease, you have no equity for a trade in. No change in insurance premiums. I guess it is what you are comfortable with.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 1,230
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From: Gaithersburg, MD
2002 C240 6-spd (ret)
Purchased my C240. Sold my '99 Passat privately for $19500. Added some cash and borrowed $13K from my bank w/ 6.75% int. over 48 months. ($345/mo). Usually, I borrow less than 40% for a new car, so my payment is much lower than a comparable lease. In 3-4 years I sell my showroom-condition vehicle for a good price and use that for the next one.
Member
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 95
Likes: 0
From: Vancouver, BC
W203 coupe Kompresor
I got mine through my mom's credit line i have like 10k on downpayment and i'm borrowing more like 37k from the bank and i'm paying like 1200 canadaian dollars per month in payments... (yeah yeah i know i'm still living at home!!)
