I've got patience, and I've inspected many cars over the years. Sometimes you don't notice little indiscretions on cars until the first time you wash them. We all miss stuff. Let's face it, there are few "perfect" used cars. That's why they're called "used". The heck with the "pre-owned" crap. We all hope somebody has taken care of a car the way we would have (or better). But then, everybody is selling for a reason, divorce, boredom, lease is up, or can't take the aggrievation anymore. Tell me what was a "steal" for your C320. I've seen '02's (advertised) for less than $19K with less than 60K (asking price). I think a 320 in a C-class would be a prety cool little rocket. I'm, by no means, adverse to a 320 motor. 240 or 320, they all command premium fuel, and our E-class gets 30 mpg pretty consistenly at 75-80 mph on trips. Just tell tell me what a good (great) deal is on an '02-03 C-class. What did YOU pay?

I agree. Hold out for the C320. The smaller engine in the C240 will leave you wanting for more power. Also, the C320 is better appointed.

The deal was not all that good either. Last November I paid $19.5K for a CPO 2002 C320 wagon with 45k miles. The car is awesome, I love my '98 E320, but the C320 is a lot of fun to drive.

Be patient, the right deal will come along.

This happened a couple of years ago. We found a 3-year-old '01 with only 6K miles -- literally "like new." It had obviously spent most of its time resting comfortably in someone's garage. We paid 29K, which was below KBB private party value at that time. A very unusual situation indeed...

I would wait too for a C320 -- especially if you don't like the color combo of black on black.

As long as I make a rest-stop every 2 hours I am fine... My daily commute 40 miles one way is fine too.