Benedict_as

Hello, switching to benz yaay,
I want to get a used Benz cos I can't afford a new one, so I need your advice.
Which is better to go for in terms of maintenance and reliability 2010 c300 or 2010 e350?
is the parts of 2010 e350 more expensive than 2010 c300?

phamq1979

E class hands down. Its better in every way. From build, to materials, to comfort....

DFWdude

E-Class is definitely a larger car interior and more comfortable. Especially more room in rear seats if you have friends that you like.

Owning both a C-Class and an E-Class myself (both made in Sindelfingen, Germany) I am not convinced the build quality or materials used is any different between the two models.

For consumable parts, both use similar oil filter elements, air filters, with similar part prices. Many smaller parts -- like fasteners, etc -- you will find are identical so cost the same.

For major items, the more tech, the more the expense (but not necessarily more depending on the model bought). In other words, 4WD cost more to maintain or repair than 2WD. Airmatic suspension costs more than Standard suspension, pano-roof is more complex to repair than a standard sunroof, etc.

My suggestion is to shop for the features you want, and be happy with it... do NOT plan to turn an otherwise perfect car -- minus a certain feature you really want -- into a horrible money pit by attempting to add that feature aftermarket. Parts bought this way are insanely expensive. Moneywise, you can easily turn an E-Class into an S-Class that way.

raja777m

I own a 2014 E350 and I get 2017 or 2018 GLA 250 or C300s as loaner vehicles, they are really noisier than my old E-..! Comfort wise my 2014 and the latest C-class 2017 feel about same to me.
If you're in market for 2010 range only, then please add 550 also to your list. I heard it is a pretty fun car to drive and enjoy.
Maintenance costs might not be that different, but the parts might be expensive between them.

ghlkal

I first bought a 2011 C300 in 2015. I really liked the car, except for two things, the lack of rear seat room and the lack of power.

I solved both problems by buying a 2012 E550 (in 2017)

From my experience and from what I've read, maintenance and reliability are similar. You won't pay a premium for parts and service on the E versus the C, unless your getting parts and service from the dealership. If you can do some wrenching yourself, and find a good independent shop for the rest, you'll be money ahead.

Good luck with the search.

Benedict_as

Thank you guys, I'm inclined to go with the 2010 E350. Although I'm still not clear if going for a 2010 model is good choice cos pf the age or I should just save up more money to get a 2011-2012

Benedict_as

thanks. Your e550 still work superb today right?

raja777m

what's your zipcode, people here are really helpful and try to find you a car.
I use autotrader; if you're close to texas, there is another shop that sells german cars and cars are hot cakes in that website.

DFWdude

Texascarsdirect.com, sells off-lease MBs almost exclusively.

Alandf

The new (2018) E300 is a four cylinder with a turbo, In my opinion it is not very smooth, having taken a trip with a friend who just purchased it .
My two year old E350 with a V-6 is smoother, quieter........Just sayin

AkaSigFreak

I had a 2008 C300 (3.0 V6), a 2013 C250 (1.8 4Cyl Turbo) and a 2014 E350 (3.5 V6). The E-Class definitely has a smoother ride, but it is limited as far as aftermarket accessories/customizing. If you are planning on keeping it stock- E-Class is the way to go.

ghlkal

Yes, no problems. I love this thing.