Thanks.

Too many people forget that these cars cost 2X of a generic USA domestic when new. Compare a 97 C 280 or E 320 against a similar size domestic and you will see.

Just because they bought a MB at a deep discount ( because the market for a generic "older MB used car" is pretty small ) they apparently think that parts should be discounted as well.

I suspect they would also complain about buying parts for a low rent Chevy Cobalt as well so it isn't just a MB thing.

My 97 SL320 Sport was purchased 3 years ago for 6k and I put another 2 to 2.5K into it getting it up to my " no unannounced breakdowns" level. The car is very nice but not show room so I am able to drive it rather than it be garage furniture.

The SL was something like $ 80 K new so I don't whine about the few expensive parts, in fact most of the common wear stuff is priced at C or E class level. And even at that is isn't out of line with a USA domestic.

All told I'm into my SL for what the original owner would have paid in _SALES TAX_ when new ( adjusted for inflation ) so every time I drive it I think what a bargain!