Commerce insurance is offering me $37,000 and change for my pristine triple black 1994 E500 with 25k miles which was totaled in July 2001. I said no way- they want to turn a $500 deductible into a $13,500 deductible.

They claim this is what a 98 point showcar is worth according to the NADA book.

So now I have to find an apprasier.

Where do you find an appraiser who really knows what these cars are worth.....instead of treating them as 400Es with bigger engines?

I called the Mercedes Club at 800-637-2360 and they were of no help.

I've been making payments on a car for 7 months that is totaled. AND insurance payments. I submitted info on other cars to establish the value.

Commerce refused to replace it with a E500 in kind.

Now they want me to hire an apprasier out of my own pocket, then Commerce will hire an apprasier- those two apprasiers will hire another appraiser to appraise the car and that will be the settlement.

How can I ensure that a knowledgeable apprasier will appraise the car?

What are other people's experiences with Commerce Insurance in regards to totaled cars? In regards to repairs- they were good about my other Mercedes- though I was not at fault.

BTW I just saw the Renntech at Hatch and Son's really nice for a 93. It came down in price to $67k. I am happy to just own a stock one. But if anyone is interested it is a nice car.