Which C class for £6.5k ?

[NOMONEYBUTAMERC]

A friend of mine is looking to buy a replacement for his tatty but reliable C180 . Budget is limited to £6.5k , and he is not into classics. Doesnt like A- class , rather likes c--- cdi . What can he expect in this price range , and equally important , which models/years are best avoided ? Needs best combination of reliability/economy . Any sensible ideas please ? Prefers 4 door , no estates. Cash buyer , no p/ex .

 

[hawk20]

Have a look on the MB website and see what is on offer approved used and at what prices. Gives a guide.

 

[Cabe]

To Ebay!

and Parkers Car Guide webby.

edit: dammit, now I am looking too!

 

[C3.6AMG]

You can buy a range of Mercs with £6,500 even a CLK cabriolet in good condition and low miles on a 99,2001,2001 plate.

For around £5,500 I would go for a decent C43 AMG V8 or around £4,000 a good C36 AMG straight six engine, although they are hard to find in good condition. You'll find that there are more C43 on sale out there so you have a bit more of a choice.

Beware of the 5 speed auto box on the C43's as they are known to fail. You'd be looking into a four figure sum to replace the gearbox. C36's have a more reliable 4 speed auto box, which some say it's bullet proof, but the head gasket can leak. Repairs can range around the £700 to £800 at Mercedes Specialist but you can half that if you can find a garage that can repair the head gasket for you.

 

[Aletank]

I'd seriously consider Mercmans in the Classifieds on this site http://www.mbclub.co.uk/forums/classifieds-cars-sale/111085-2003-w203-avantgarde-se-43k-1-owner.html
If my car wasn't so good I'd be very interested in it

 

[Meldrew2]

I bought an omega wristwatch from Mercman a few years ago, and saw his car then... it was gleaming and well cared for.

He has/had another vehicle for work, which explains the low mileage on the merc. 5000 miles a year is a sign of a car used for pleasure.

Really genuine bloke - I'm sure that whoever buys his car won't be disappointed.

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