C Class - Good Points and Bad

[TiVo_Lad]

I'm in the market for an old style (pre-face lift) C Class. As I am new to Mercedes I'm trying to do some research first before hitting the streets and thought the friendly folks here might be able to provide some pointers

The parameters I have set myself so far are:

Budget - Up to £6,000
Transmission - Auto
Max Mileage - 80K

I'd prefer one with Alloys and Cruise and it must come with A/C. Not bothered about Leather. The Classic Models seem a little basic but would I pay over the odds for an Elegance spec? They seem to have all the toys but are they over priced? The car will be the second car in the house and will be used for "outings" rather that day to day commuting.

I guess what I'm trying to establish is:

1. What models / engines to avoid
2. Common Faults to watch out for
3. What are the best models / engines
4. General advice / opinions

Apologies if this has been asked before and if there are any useful resources that address these types of questions, I'd appreciate any pointers!

Many Thanks

Craig

 

[television]

Welcome to the forum, you will get a lot of answer's, bear in mind one thing that the cheapest MB could turn out to be the most expensive. Certainly go for a lot of options, they all help to make the car what it is.

Malcolm

 

[maldon]

TiVo,

I was happy with everything about the C230K we had - it was just too small in the back.

If you are going to transport large kids or adults on longer journeys, an E would probably be a better bet.

 

[TiVo_Lad]

If you are going to transport large kids or adults on longer journeys, an E would probably be a better bet.

Fortunately, it's only me and the other half, so everything behind the front head restraints rather pales into insignificance!

 

[hexflyer]

I paid £6k(in feb) for my 99 T plate C250turbodiesel elegance, would recommend it, plenty of power with some economy all the toys has a 100k on the clock and drives like new, i would steer clear of the C180 though not enough power, the 200 or the 240 are good petrol models to go for, steering clear of the basic spec 'classic'

 

[jberks]

I'd also avoid the C180 if possible. The C200 isn't a racer but is just about acceptable from a power point of view. Anything bigger is fine. The MPG isn't much different between any of them.
Most '98- cars have aircon as standard following the face lift and the trim in the classics post face lift was ok, though pre face lift classics were a bit poor. Its just odd things like a leather steering wheel and some chrome trim that are different.
We've had a 1995 C220 since 1998 and I can't think of anything thats gone wrong with it so in terms of things to look out for, just drive a few so you get the feel and pick the nicest! Just make sure you have a proper history, either main dealer or specialist and that daft things like brake fluid and gearbox oil & filters have been changed.

 

[Ron Palfrey]

My C is a 1994 C280 Elegance, without aircon or cruise. Cost me £2500 with full MBSH. Now done 93k miles. I love it! Couple of problems with the n/s electric windows which I fixed myself for next to nothing. You can dismantle the motors, service them, then reassemble. Not like some cars where it is replace with a new unit 'cos you can't take the old one apart. These cars are so well made. Look after it and you can bet your bottom dollar it will last for ages. Change the oil, fluids and filters regularly and you'll keep any wear to a minimum. Look after that big central wiper. There are plenty of threads about keeping that greased (the mechanism, not the blade of course). I get about 27mpg usually, up to 29mpg on a run.

Ron

 

[M6AJJ]

Avoid the C180, hard work as just that little underpowered. C200 and above fine, and really good build quality. (Made from girders). Not the most dynamic or modern looking car on the road. I was really happy with mine, and from 97 to 2000 didn't cost me a penny apart from tyres etc.

The facelift version, (Mid 97 onwards) is worth looking at as it has the little extras like traction control, more airbags etc. The elegance in my opinion is also worth it, just that bit more comfortable.

At todays prices should be able to purchase a good example for under £6000

 

[bibamus]

Well, I have a C180 Elegance, but it really isnt as slow as some would make out. Maybe I am lucky, but before I bought mine I drove an E230, and to be honest, there was little in it performance wise. Mine will do well over 100 ( not really officer) seems to get up to the legal limit quite quickly ( never timed it) and is auto with air con, cruise, walnut trim, cd player etc.
After driving my wifes Golf VR6, there is a drop in performance, but nothing unacceptable, oh, and it does over 35 mpg.
Anyway, I bought it for comfort ( which it is, and near silent too) not to race off from the lights. Theres something quite nice wafting along at 70 on the motorway while all the reps are trying to race off into the sunset.
Of course, the bigger engined cars will be so much faster, but dont dismiss the 180`s so readily.

Allan

 

[timmy]

I agree, a c180 is not all bad. Horses for courses really. Mine is quiet, comfortable, very well built, reliable, economical and great to look at. Cost less than a mondeo too and has a touch of class.Won't win any rallies, but it's not meant for that is it?

 

[concord]

I'm in the market for an old style (pre-face lift) C Class. As I am new to Mercedes I'm trying to do some research first before hitting the streets and thought the friendly folks here might be able to provide some pointers

The parameters I have set myself so far are:

Budget - Up to £6,000
Transmission - Auto
Max Mileage - 80K

I'd prefer one with Alloys and Cruise and it must come with A/C. Not bothered about Leather. The Classic Models seem a little basic but would I pay over the odds for an Elegance spec? They seem to have all the toys but are they over priced? The car will be the second car in the house and will be used for "outings" rather that day to day commuting.

I guess what I'm trying to establish is:

1. What models / engines to avoid
2. Common Faults to watch out for
3. What are the best models / engines
4. General advice / opinions

Apologies if this has been asked before and if there are any useful resources that address these types of questions, I'd appreciate any pointers!

Many Thanks

Craig

Hi Tivo Lad
If you are still in the market for a pre new model C class, Mine is up for sale as I need an estate.
Its a W reg year 2000, C200, classic selection, which has a few extras over the basic Classic. Mileage £91K. If of interest call 07812 350966 for further details. I am located is South oxfordshire and work in West London.

 

[Neil Plumridge]

Good to look at Timmy ? It's bright yellow man! just kidding....honest.

 

[joeyq46]

c class

i have a c lass 250 t,d. 1999 treg 9800 on the clock £4.500 more details on request jq

 

[joeyq46]

mercedes benz

mercedes c lass t.d.250 1999 with long m.ot. and tax metalic blue very clean and a lovely drive £4500very clean inside ring 01512864302
joeQ

 

[KentishMan]

I have a 98' 250TD silver est sport - now on 160K
It is reliable, reasonable performance & built like a tank!!!! I get about 35mpg & It is just great to drive, locally or to the continent!
Yes I envy those folks with C class 2004 onwards but will stick to mine for a while!
James