Quite a few threads on this just typing in "4matic"...to be honest it really doesn't matter even the model (c,e, etc.) since your always going to trade off acc., speed, etc. to the benefits of AWD on every model.
Drove the E320 4-matic and thought it was a slug so I would think a crippled turtle could probably move faster then a C240 4-matic.

Either way research each style, why and how important AWD is to your driving conditions, and how much is in your piggy bank to spend on a bigger engine to compensate for the AWD if that is they way you decide to go...

 

I own a C320 4Matic (05). I test drove the C240 4Matic and drive one at least once a month for 2-3 days at a time.

I think anyone who think the C240 is a slug hasn't driven it enough. It's an awesome drive. At a MB rally before making my final decision, I drove the C230, the E320, the E320 4Matic. The C240 felt best. The reasons I ended up with the C320: the options. By the time I was done adding on all the features I wanted, it didn't make sense not to buy the C320.

I also drive a BMW 325xi on occasion. In terms of luxury and feel in the cabin, hands down MB is way better. The BMW feels faster, but isn't. At times, during the snow storms we had in Boston this winter, I thought the BMW handled slightly better. But my motto: 4matic is 4fun.

Gas mileage sucks for the C320 4Matic, I think. I get about 25mpg on the highway and 20mph in the city.

So in making your descions, if 4Matic is a necessary option, the only other consideration I would make is this: how many options are you going to add to a C240? At some point, the decision will become clear if you consider the cost tradeoff.

No comments on 04 vs. 05. I wanted the latest and greatest. Anyway with the 06 coming out soon, wouldn't you also get a good deal on an 05?

Hope this helps.

One last thing, if you can afford it, don't let anyone talk you out of an option you want! Especially navigation.

 

Dude,

I suggets you look into a G35 coupe or 330..
REGARDS

 

I agree. If you're in the USA (or anyplace where there e90 3-series is about to launch) you should be able to get a really good deal on an e46. I've heard of people picking up 330i's for 30K.

 

Thanks for the advice guys. I found the car I wanted and will pick it up next week. 2004 C320 4matic. Comes with the sunroof package, heated seats, black on black and 13,700 miles. Came out to $30,500. Hopefully this is ok. Edmunds had it priced at 29,973 but there seems to be slim pickings on used 320 4matics.

 

I hope you at least TRIED to talk them down regardless. The used car market is so depressed right now...take advantage of it!

 

Could someone please verify for me the CD changer that would fit in the C320? Is it the M 3010? I found one with Serial Number: A 203 820 9089 and wanted to make sure it would fit.

Thanks

 

Welcome sansan! I'm not able to assist with the CD changer, but if you don't get a response on the C-class forum...send a post on the audio/electronics forum. Hope you find what you're looking for!

-Isla

 

I have a 2005 c320 4 matic. I love it. The car handles like its on rails in all weather. Truly amazing.

 

My parents are looking at getting a C180K Sports Coupe (AUS-spec) for their final car.

Were there any recalls or worldwide TSB's?

What were other minor problems other people have had with their Sports Coupes?

What do you guys think of the options you selected, and whether they were worth the $$$ (especially the panoramic sunroof). My parents aren't too big on options, and only want to get quality options. eg what's the difference between basic climate control and the Luxury option?

My parents may be a bit reluctant to bargain, so I'll probably end up doing it. What things are dealers most likely to throw into a deal?

How can I project an image of seriousness during negotiation? I'm 22 year old pharmacist that looks 15.

Thanks for your help.

dan

 

Is it possible to have MB install memory seats after I purchase the car? Or do I have to buy a model with them already installed? Thanks to whoever can help me out!

 

This has been discussed somewhat before by Jim Banville (I think). I would imagine your dealer would resist performing that upgrade after buying the car or charge you a lot of money since there are quite a few changes with the power driver's seat. If you are buying the car second hand, I think this is a pretty difficult mod.

 

I concur. This is a very expensive mod to a car without it at purchase. It would be more cost efficient to order it on the car and wait for delivery, if that's doable.

Almost anything can be added to these cars after purchase. But I feel the concensus is that doing so is not only technically difficult (in terms of integrating the aftermarket system with existing controls) but at least twice as expensive as buying it on a car built with the feature at the factory.

 

Thanks for your help guys.

 

Hey guys, my wife and I are getting an '03 C230K coupe with 11K original miles for $21.5K The date of purchase was in Jan of '03 so the warranty will run out in Jan of '07. The dealer is offering to give us an extra year of warranty (basically selling it MB-certified since it passed the inspection - they wanted $23,900 for the car but agreed to sell it w/o certification for our agreed price) for $900. Do you guys think we should get it? I take really good care of my cars and it'll only get driven about 12K miles a year. I've heard that the c230's have a bunch of electrical problems and was advised to take it. Would you all back that up or have your cars been reliable and think it would be a waste? I see it as gambling against myself that I'll have over $900 in repairs in 2007. Thanks in advance and I'm really excited to pick the car up and finalize the sale tomorrow.

 

call



ask the dealer what is covered and compare:

http://www.warrantydirect.com/

Luxury Care:

We will pay the repair facility of your choice for the reasonable cost to repair or replace any part of your vehicle where a failure has occurred, except for those items listed in the exclusions section.

In addition, LuxuryCare+ includes coverage for the following listed specific parts:

EMISSIONS SYSTEMS - Air Fuel Ratio Sensor, Air Induction System, Air Pump, Anti-Knock Sensor, Barometric Pressure Sensor, Canister Purge Solenoid, Deceleration Valve, EGR Recirculation System, EGR/EFE Thermal Vacuum Switch, EGR/EFE Valve, Engine Oil Fill Cap, Fuel Fill Pipe and Cap, Fuel Fill Neck Restrictor, Fuel Receptacle, Fuel Sensor, Fuel Tank Pressure Control Valve (PCV), Fuel Temperature Sensor, Idle Air Control Valve, Intake Air Resonator, Intake Air Temperature Sensor, Intake Manifold, Manifold Air Pressure (MAP) Sensor, Mass Air Flow Sensor, Oil/Air Separator, Oxygen Sensor, PCV System, Positive Crankcase Ventilation Valve, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Secondary Air Injection System, Throttle Body Assembly (MFI).

GPS NAVIGATION SYSTEMS - Navigation display unit, navigation control module, navigation system wiring harness.

DVD/ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEMS - LCD screen (10" or less), RF modulator, video cassette player with auxiliary inputs (No recording capability), digital video disc player, power converter.

PHONE SYSTEMS - Charger/cradle, microphone, speakers, phone.

INTERNET ACCESS SYSTEM - Power converter, satellite receiver, satellite dish or wireless receiver (Metropolitan areas only).

Exclusions:

Battery; shock absorbers; manual transmission clutch assembly; friction clutch disc & pressure plate; throwout bearing; manual and hydraulic linkages; safety restraint systems; glass; lenses; sealed beams; bulbs; brake rotors & drums; TV/video game systems; weather strips; exterior body parts/ornamentation; paint; upholstery & carpet; tires; wheels/rims; exhaust system.

Emissions system; GPS/Navigation system; DVD Entertainment system; Phone system; Internet Access system EXCEPT for the specific parts listed in the LuxuryCare+ coverage statement above.

Maintenance services and parts described in your vehicle's owner's manual as supplied by the manufacturer. (i.e. oil changes, tune-ups, brake pads, belts, hoses and spark plugs)

 

i am thinking about buying a c230 coupe i found one at a dealership. its a 2002 c230 silver with a c7 wheel package,leather seats and automatic with 51,000 miles on it for $15,000. i just want to know if these cars are reliable after 50,000 miles and is there any mechanical problems at the 50k mark? it will be a daily driven car so i need something dependable.

 

My "03 coupe has given good service, except for some codes it threw, under warrenty. All fixed.
If you can speak to the former owner or check it's history, you will be in a better position to judge.
Service at the stealeralerships is expensive.
A trip to an honest independent M/B shop would be worth the investment in my opinion.
If you find out that the car came from N.O. in Louisiana, run like hell!
Let us know what you decide.

 

Hey, I'm about to seel my car (from N.O), and it didn't flood... I used it to evacuate and stay high and dry! Hopefully buyers will be more objective than what you're suggesting.

 

Buy a 6speed Coupe. The automatic saps too much of the fun from the car. The price is good, and as long as service and warranty work has been kept up with, the car should be plenty reliable. Electronics are the only worries. The engine and everything else is pretty reliable.

 

Did not mean that there are not cream puffs from N.O.
Which is why a suggested an inspection by an andependent shop.
Good luck with your sale.

 

Hmmm.... "Run like hell" sounds pretty final to me.

 

With the 2002 - you can get an pulley for pretty cheap to up the power as well... Although I'm with Outland - if you can, find a 6spd. They're a lot more fun!

 

Heck I'll sell this dude mine... 20K less miles, 2002 6 spd, Pano, Bose, Leather...and the greatest color ever made!

 

i thought that when you bought a used benz from the stealership they came with a 100,000 mile warantee... That is what i was told when i bought my 03 coupe.