They are good little cars but are not particularly simple. Keep in mind you could easily drop $5,000 or more on upkeep and then decide if the car makes sense for you. As far as the air conditioner system, I would not, without looking at an invoice and written work description, take "replaced compressor" at face value. There are numerous ancillary parts that go to refurbishing that system properly.

__________________
Michael

1988 300 SL (5 Speed)
1994 E320 Wagon
1997 C230