CDI 220 & 250 TD

[HZ123]

I am now thinking of upgrading from an'A' to a proper Merc. Can I have some advice from members as to which of the above is the most economic and does the 'Auto'in the case of the 220 have a five speed box. i would welcome all and any comments on these two marques and tips for which is the considered best. From my own research I would hazard that 97-99 250TD appear more solid but I await advice and tips on what to look for and what level of mileage with full service is acceptable. Caution leans me to models with 60,000 - 80,000,am I far to cautious. Thanks.

[jeffhosier]

I've got a 1998 C250TD auto estate which I bought new. It's got 86k miles on it, and it's been pretty good. I've not had to do any major repairs - just the usual. Everything still works apart from one elec window, but since it's in tourist class at the back, I can't be bothered to get it fixed. It's a great car for doing distances; you can travel 4-500 miles in a day, and get out of it fresh as a daisy. Overall it does 38 mpg.

It's not a lot of fun to drive, but my wife adores the thing, and every time I show her nice BMW 5 series, she changes the subject!

I wouldn't replace it with another Mercedes, because I really don't like the local dealer, and the consensus appears to be that Merc has lost the plot with the newer cars. But if you've got a good dealer, and you're not that fussed about driving like a loony, it's a solid, very comfortable car.

Hope that helps