Thanks for for the most in-depth response I've received on the C-Class, Ethan.
The fact that you would "buy again" is comforting. Nonetheless, any car priced over 20 grand, for me, has to be a pretty good vehicle. I can't deny that I'm looking at all prospects, (Lexus, Infiniti, Acura etc) as a replacement to our E320. Our E is a great car that has been serviced properly, but continues to have annoying and sometimes unreasonably exxpensive repair concerns. For example, a heater motor and relay for 500 bucks plus? Gimme a break! And the sunroof is still waiting for me to buy a cable and fish the damn thing through the maze.....
Anyway, the C is a helluva good looking car, the right size for what two aging (but middle class) adults might hope to motor around in could hope for, so I guess we'll see where this thread takes us. I'm hoping to drive one I've had my eye on, soon. Thanks again for your input.