I've been spending between $2500 and $3000 (Canadian) on my '94 C280 for the past 3 or 4 years. That includes tires (and I run two sets). I'd be thrilled to be spending $1200 a year, let alone $450. I only put about 7,000 miles a year on that car, so spending between $200-$250 a month on maintenance is kind of silly, I admit. But everyone needs a vice, right? I love my car and I'm prepared to pay the price.