are the C-class mercedes from about 5 years ago any good?
are there particular models to avoid?
how about the AMG examples?
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Dec. 2, 2011 4:29 p.m. belteshazzar SuperDork
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Dec. 2, 2011 4:42 p.m. Javelin SuperDork
If it's anything like my sister-in-law's last 2 E-Classes, you're better off stabbing yourself repeatedly in the eyes with a spork. 03-ish and an 08-ish, both were absolute crap, even though they were purchased CPO, dealer-serviced, etc. She drives a Jag now and thinks it's more reliable/higher quality!
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Dec. 2, 2011 4:47 p.m. 93EXCivic SuperDork
Javelin wrote:
She drives a Jag now and thinks it's more reliable/higher quality!
That is because they are.
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Dec. 2, 2011 4:49 p.m. belteshazzar SuperDork
hmmm... and i was under the impression the E-class were better than the C's.
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Dec. 2, 2011 4:50 p.m. mtn SuperDork
My rule is don't buy any Mercedes made between 1995 and 2010.
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Dec. 2, 2011 4:53 p.m. 93EXCivic SuperDork
Any of the newer luxury cars are going to be a pain to maintain and service IMHO. Everyone says that Jags are so bad but every Jag I have dealt with seems to be as reliable as BMWs. They don't have the cooling and bushing and every other problem a BMW has just different problems.
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Dec. 3, 2011 6:30 p.m. thunderzy New Reader
My mother is on her second E class, and I have a cousin that owns a 2010 C class. The C class is total crap. The ride is hard and uncomfortable, interior is E36 M3e, and the back seat is more of a storage shelf than place for passengers. Not to mention automatics only!!! The previous model E was a total turd also but they were giving those away for under $500 a month nothing down. The 2010 model E my mother has now is much better and slightly more deserving of the name plate. But IMHO still a totally over priced automobile. Stay away from any MB built in the 2000s.
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Dec. 3, 2011 8:16 p.m. Feedyurhed Dork
No ringing endorsements for late model MBs here.
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Dec. 3, 2011 8:31 p.m. mmosbey Reader
I liked the 2002 C230 Sport Coupe during a new-car test drive. It had a nice 6 speed stick, with short throws. I was driving a stripper, without the ginormous glass roof, and with cloth.
I owned a Miata at the time, and I remember the Merc coupe felt quite small and nimble.
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Dec. 3, 2011 9:33 p.m. Junkyard_Dog Dork
Take all the bad things you've heard about VWs and multiply times four-including costs. I've worked on both at the dealerships. I'm worried I may be underestimating the multiplier.
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Dec. 3, 2011 10:03 p.m. Curmudgeon SuperDork
(former indie M-B service writer) My mommy told me that if I couldn't say anything nice then keep my mouth shut.
(long silence)
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Dec. 4, 2011 10:43 a.m. Rusted_Busted_Spit SuperDork
I have nothing to add about the C class but in the year or so we have had my Wifes 06 R350 it has been good. The only thing so far has been the air compressor, that was pricey to get replaced but I have been supprised at the price for things like oil filters and such. We got it with @76K miles on it and it is now about 95K. I would check around for an indie shop and ask them. The place I found locally has been great. When I took the car in to get the compressor relaced I ended up talking to the guy for like an hour. I am sure most of the people he gets in his shop do not do any DIY stuff so we had a nice conversation about cars.
Of course now that I have posted this the car will fall apart tomorrow but so far we have been happy with it.
