re: Doing the struts yourself.
It all depends on your ability. I never have had enough sense to say "no" when confronted by a challenge. Someimes I have gotten in a little over my head, but I have always been able to finish whatever job it was. If you are reasonably competent, and follow all safety rules, there is no reason you can't do it in a weekend. Just wait until its not so freakin hot! Do a search on the forum for past posts and see whats there. Make sure you have the proper tool for compressing the strut. Some rental places have them. Years ago, I did a set of struts on my Peugeot 504. After removing the strut, loosening the cap nut, and carefully leaning it upright, I got to doing something else. Unknown to me, the spring compressor ( the old style-three seperate hooks--not the MB tool) walked around the spring and released itself. The first thing IO knew about it was the sound of the upper cap being launched into space. I did not identify the noise at first, but realised what it was when the upper cap landed after what seemed like 30 seconds. I KNOW it wasn't that long, but it seemed it. Gave me a fresh appreciation for the energy stored in those springs.
I relate this only to impress the need for correct tools and safe procedures; not trying to discourage you in any way. Consult your workshop manuals, and your friends here at mercedesshop will be happy to help. Who knows, you might even get some onsite help from a member--I'm on the opposite coast.
The learing curve is quite steep. I bet the first side will take you 4 to 5 hours, but the second side only half that.