You might be able to avoid a major leave me on the side of the road break down but you won't avoid replacing some very expensive components along the way.

Can any car go 300K without breakdowns? :confused:

My 96 C220 W202 did up to 315k but it was my choice to have the head gasket replaced. Car was running fine. Just normal maintenace otherwise.

I think the W202 made it to production just before MB's massive cost cutting era. Besides the M111, the rest of the components in the W203 weren't so lucky.

If you take care of it they will last. Trouble is, its tough to know how it was cared for prior when getting a used car. Its like rolling the dice. I lucked out with my C220 as it came from a family member. And my 300Ds came from original owners who I personally knew.

And by the way, taking care of it does not mean taking it to the a shop for every little thing. I believe my cars last as I do my own maintenance. Unfortunately, my experience with shops is not always so good especially with just normal maintenance. And when I really want something to be done, I bring to an Indy I found to be competent and trustworthy.

You're very fortunate. The majority of 200K+ cars that come through my shop usually arrive on a flat-bed.

C320 4matic
 

I'm currently looking at an 05 C320 4matic from a car dealer. It appears to have the same engine as the E320? Any advise on these models?

13-pin tranny cable?
4matic?
???

Much better choice!

The C320 has the M112 engine. The later model year C350 and C280 are equipped with the M272 engine.

It's a good car. You should buy it.