desired_speeds

I've just begun search for a W210 E55 and came across an 02 with 76k mi located in Milwakee, WI. The only problem is that I'm located in San Francisco, CA. The car seems very clean and is lower mileage for the price. It really caught my eye as most cars with that kind of mileage around me is asking $16k+. I've calculated that if I were to fly out there and drive the car home, pay taxes and registration, it would run me around $11-12k. Has anybody ever had any experience buying a car in such a manner? My only worry is that I arrive to find that the car is a jalopy. I'm also on a tight schedule, so the only chance I have to get the car would be labor day weekend. I don't think I would even have time for a PPI when I arrive. Any advice on this? TIA!

Here's the link to the car: http://milwaukee.craigslist.org/cto/1919492770.html

saintz

I have done this. Generally, it's pretty safe. If you're saving $4k to $5k vs. buying local, it's probably worth some risk. Chances are the car, even if it has some sight-unseen problems, won't have $5k worth.

You can google a local shop, call them and arrange a PPI and pay over the phone by credit card, and then ask the owner to drop it off.

That's a great deal, btw, assuming it is in good shape. Ask for hi-res pictures of everything if you haven't already.

jtbeche

Generally you can find another MB owner in the area on these forums who might be able to check it out for you and kind of give you the all clear (at least to the best of their ability) or at least warn you to stay away.

desired_speeds

thanks for the advice guys! Good call on on the PPI part. I've already found a shop in the area that I can contact to do a PPI. I've already emailed the seller with some questions and am waiting for a reply. Next step would be to discuss the car over the phone and ask for high res pics. Is there anybody in the area that can possibly stop by and take a look at the car for me? thanks again guys!

Eurosport

it can definitely be done, the main important thing to consider is specially at that price range, while saving 5k is great at the beginning, it can quickly make you spend that much or more even diy if it's not the right car. making sure it's the right car as in how it was maintained and condition, records, receipts, etc. would be more important than the actual price savings upfront.

gl hope you find the right one for you.

desired_speeds

I think I just found out why they're asking $9800

take a look at the photos: http://chicago.craigslist.org/chc/cto/1909985194.html

It's missing a headrest or two. How on earth does that happen?

MR888

It has a few dings, but seems alright for the price, the headrests can be pulled out i think. Watch out for rust around the fenders, salt makes 210s rust fast

jtbeche

I don't know. That looks pretty rough. I mean if you don't mind dents and scratches and are just looking for the car on the real cheap then go for it but it sounds like you'd rather have a nicer car.

desired_speeds

I'm definitely going to pass on this one. I did not feel comfortable buying the car, when I saw the dents and scrapes. Thanks for the help everyone! I hope to find a reasonably priced one in good condition soon.