SuperiorWitt

So my car just died on me a few weeks back('01 audi a6 2.7), received a few grand for it 'as is', and decide to upgrade to a new old Benz. I dont really want to go over 4k, and I may not have to, as im finding a few cars in that range that seem promising.. but i do need advice.

Looking at the C220, C230, C280's and mainly the 97+ e320's. Which is the way to go? Which years to avoid? What to look for? Ive done some research, but find some posts contradict others.. this form vs.. peachparts.. benzworld etc.

Thanks!

Hirnbeiss

At that price tou'll need to stay pre-facelift, which was 2000. I would go for the M112 V6 instead of the M104 inline, which was replaced in 98 I think. The M104 is a great engine, just that it's another genaration older.

ohlord

you are looking at a low mile 1997 C230 would be the ticket. First year of the new style ,last year of the bulletproof 230 4cyl.
Well bought,properly inspected expect it to last for years of trouble free miles.
The 2.3l 16 valve engine is one of the great mb engines.

ejsheltra

The E and the C class are completely different vehicles. What do you need for volume and cargo handling. If you are a big person tall or otherwise a C class will feel cramped. The E has much more room and both are about the same to maintain. If you can stretch to the post face lifted E Class which begins from 6/99 on that would be a good buy. Try a search on autotrader.com nationwide to see what options you have. You may be pleasantly surprised. I am 6'5" and have ample room in the E Class.

ejsheltra

The M112 V6 motor has more power than the M104 inline 6, 220hp versus 177hp and gets better fuel efficiency, 17-28 for the 112 versus 13-23mpg for the 104.

ohlord

the same hp as the m112 220hp and 232ftlb tq.
at 100 lbs heavier . The M103 has 177hp and the 1988's I have are not wanting for power even at that. At 138mph they are still breathing easy and wishing for more
My vote unless the op is 6ft5 is still the c230 @ $4000 he is far more likely to find one in great shape than trying to find a low mile M112 E320

SuperiorWitt

Ironic lol.. but I actually am 6'5. I didnt even stop to think if i would fit comfortably in the C, as I fit fine in the old A6. I want to get out and test both of these soon. I test drove an e36 yesterday, had good leg room, but sits way too low for my tastes.

Regarding the M112, M103 etc. I'm not sure which vehicles those engines belong to Is there a key or legend anywhere?

ohlord

old school engines.
M112 newish school v6 all aluminum
M113 "" """ V8 all aluminum
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of...s-Benz_engines

The C will still seat you.
Or up your 4k budget and get the E classe

SuperiorWitt

omg..this morn test drove a '99 E320 with 108k on the odo.. I am in love. I played it cool, but I want this car..I didnt see or hear anything out of the ordinary, but I will probably still get it checked out prior to purchase.

Is there anyplace I should look for leaks or non-working parts? I completely forgot to prepare a list prior to heading out there.

illest

- spring perches
- window regulators
- service records - at 108k there are serveral things that should have been done or will need to be done soon (plugs, trans fluid, oil change)

Check out this thread as well

It has a list of many common problems, not all of them happen often but its good to know what to look out for. If you are comfortable with DIY most can be resolved easily.

dsmith

At 108k, you'll at least need the following:
-engine mounts
-engine seals-vc, breathers, oil test port, breather hoses
-belt tensioner and pulleys
-water pump, t-stat, hoses
-headliner???
-brake switch
-probably due for the second set of rear window regulators
-front end bushings/ball joints/stabilizer links
-front/rear rotors and pads, if still original

Basically, about the same as any car. If you DIY, this is all pretty easy. You just need to know if any has already been done, or if you'll get stuck with the bill. If there is no documentation, expect it's not been done and price the car accordingly.

illest

If you get it properly inspected the mechanic should be able to give you an idea of what to expect / save up for.

W202_NY

you may find the C series a bit tight for you,

Plutoe

I want to that you for your great observation skills---you just replied to a nine and a half year old post. For all we know the originator went the way of ohlord to the scrap heap of misinformation.,however great contribution