new w202 c43 owner engine rebuild question

[jgs600]

well its finally happening after many years ive finally hopefully picking up my very first w202 C43 amg tomorrow, the last owner has owned her for 18 years and acquired it direct from Mercedes but sadly has to let the car go for various reasons , however it does have 1 major problem... it may need an engine rebuild... SO my question is, if the rest of the car is solid and worth saving how much am I looking at for a total C43 engine rebuild ( which by the way I cant do myself ) or do I go down the route of an E55 replacement...
im based in the uk down south so any suggestions or recommendations would really help....

 

[WilliamParsons]

The cost of a C43 AMG engine rebuild can vary widely, but it can typically range from $5,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the extent of the damage and the quality of parts used. If the rest of the car is in good condition and you're willing to invest in the rebuild, it might be worth it to keep the C43. However, consider getting a professional mechanic's assessment before making a decision. Replacing it with an E55 is an option, but it would depend on your budget and preferences.

 

[philnewmerc]

well its finally happening after many years ive finally hopefully picking up my very first w202 C43 amg tomorrow, the last owner has owned her for 18 years and acquired it direct from Mercedes but sadly has to let the car go for various reasons , however it does have 1 major problem... it may need an engine rebuild... SO my question is, if the rest of the car is solid and worth saving how much am I looking at for a total C43 engine rebuild ( which by the way I cant do myself ) or do I go down the route of an E55 replacement...
im based in the uk down south so any suggestions or recommendations would really help....

W202s in the UK rust like 1970s Datsuns so it sounds unwise to me unless the car is sub £1000 and you just want the 'fun' of a rebuild challenge. Personally I'd suggest finding one in good condition for up to £10k, or an e55... it'll cost no more than a rebuild and rust repairs.

 

[RogerSausage]

Can I ask why the engine needs a rebuild? The M113 is one of the most un-burstable and durable engines Mercedes ever produced.

To be honest, a rebuild may not be the most financially sound investment really. As a C43 owner myself, if the engine ever died I'd just source a 5.4 replacement instead and drop that in rather than refurb the old one. The 55 engines aren't as cheap or plentiful as they once were, but you can still find them out there. New rear main seal and rocker cover gaskets, fresh oil and away you go.