I want to post a regional-specific response...especially pertaining to comments regarding the paint of used MB's. I agree that while the vast majority of MBs have superior finishes that should not need re-done (on cars less than 20 years old), there is one exception: Those that have been in the US Southwest (far W. TX, NM, AZ) all of their lives. The sun is unbelievably intense here (particularly in the high elevation high-desert areas) and will oxidize the paint like in no other place in the US. If you are considering buying a car from the SW, pay particular attention to the horizontal surfaces, and if you see ANY paint fading it will only get worse over time...very much so! Silver is the worst for whatever reason). But, on the other hand, if you see one from this area with very good paint then you know it was garaged and also had attention to polishing/protection. These will tell you if the owner(s) cared for the vehicle!

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1996 SL320 97K miles
1996 C220 130k miles
1992 500SEL 170k miles <---sold
1986 300E 216k miles <---sold