C Class Coupe - CL203 - What to look for

[mirras]

In a bid to move my kids into something halfway decent, I've put their Fiesta up for sale and am looking at a few options to replace it.
The criteria are;

Decent MPG, looks nice, automatic, resonable insurance and most of all safe.

I have looked at the 2008 Astra, Freelander TD4 and C220/200 CDI coupe (CL203).

What do I need to look out for on a late 2004/2005 facelift model? I've driven a couple and they feel fine, I spotted the speaker grilles get broken easily... what else do I need to look for ?

Thanks...

 

[Chrishazle]

Rear wheel drive, automatic, MB - in Ayreshire??? Have you not read the threads on here and t'other side about MB's needing winter tyres as soon as the first frost hits - or they go nowhere! Even as far south as I am, lest winter has persuaded me to invest in a set of winter wheels and tyres for this winter! My S203 was parked up for days last winter, could not get off the driveway and 300 yards to the cleared road.

 

[mirras]

Rear wheel drive, automatic, MB - in Ayreshire??? Have you not read the threads on here and t'other side about MB's needing winter tyres as soon as the first frost hits - or they go nowhere! Even as far south as I am, lest winter has persuaded me to invest in a set of winter wheels and tyres for this winter! My S203 was parked up for days last winter, could not get off the driveway and 300 yards to the cleared road.

I know but I've driven RWD around here for the past 12 years and only ever had problems with the 3 series BMW, even my SL managed ok last couple of years. There's always plenty of salt around here, if it was really bad we have a FWD car that could be used

 

[BlackC55]

The late model 203's are excellent. We rarely have to do any repairs to them.