Need Advice on '01 C240/C320 Purchase

I am planning to buy a '01 C240 or '01 C320 by the end of Feb. I need some feedback on current '01 C240/C320 owners. I will be replacing my '00 BMW 528i, because of my wife who does not enjoy driving a manual trans.


Chicagoland

[David C Klasse]

If you were to choose between the two, get the C320, unless money is an issue. The C320 is a little cheaper than a 528i even, I believe. And especially if you're used the the power of the 528i, the 320 will suit you very well. The Mercedes is much better than the (any, for that matter) Bimmer, IMHO. Good luck.

Hi,

I took delivery on a Silver C320 automatic in November 2000. Except for a leaking wiper reservoir,(warranty) I love the car. It goes from 0-60 in 6.9 sec. I keep an eye on the speedo since it could easily go over the speed limit very quickly. The car has so much safety feature that my insurance payment is only about $100 more than my 1987 190E 2.3 -16. BTW, this car is for my wife .

I am looking to get the C240 sport, in 6 speed for myself since it has plenty of power already.

I also like the free maintenance warranty.

Just my .02 cents.

Regards,
Orlie

Since you're locked into an automatic transmission, I think that the 320 is the clear choice. The only reason I got the C240 was my pent up desire for a new manual transmission Benz sedan(not to mention the fact that every car at my place was broken at the time and walking didn't cut it). If they put the six speed in the 320 and I am able, I will replace my 240 with a 320.

To me it's kind of a shame to have to buy one of these cars with an automatic. But I realize that; a) I'm in the extreme minority as far as transmission preference goes and b) this is my own personal opinion.

Good luck and enjoy it whatever it is,

Thanks guys for your reply! I test drove the C240 6-speed. I fell in love with transmission - very easy to shift, but remember I have to consider my wife. Because I am in sales, I need to use the ML320 to carry equipment to and from client sites. I enjoyed driving the C320 with the sport package. My driving habit has changed, I drive like a very old man. I love speeding but in a control environment (Race Track). Safety is always a top priority for me. I even test drove the Volvo S60 - nice car but not for me.

What are some of the options you guys feel are a must? I considering the C240 over the C320, because of the price difference.

Has anyone be able to get a C-Class lower than MSRP?

If I were to order a new one, I would get the ski sack option. It allows you to fold down the rear seats for cargo space.

I would also get the Comand system. But that's just me.

I think the only must have option is the ski sack. The rest would be personal preference. I wouldn't buy the ridiculous rear sunshade. I wish I had not had to pay for my rear sun shade.

The automatic wipers with rain sensor is nice, but I wouldn't order and pay for it.

These cars are so complete with standard equipment, that you just don't need any options.

BTW, The love affair with my six speed transmission continues, it is awesome.

Good luck,

[wilbanks]

All things considered, I am unhappy with my 2001 C240. I have about 75K on my car and I have had about $2500 in unexpected repairs (2 alternators, and various sensors and modular boards) and $2000 that I chose not to repair (antenna) since the 50K warranty expired. I love the way it drives (I am also a big fan of the 6-speed manual) and it looks. However, the expense is getting quite out of control.

Best of luck to you in your decision, but I wanted to add my opinion.

Wilbanks,

You're a little late on your advice. I wish you could have posted it in about Septemember of 2000. That's when I bought my C240. Now that we sit here 6 1/2 years or so later I can tell you that it turned out to be my worst car purchase EVER. I loved driving that car, but it had more problems than any car I EVER had. I got rid of it in early 2004 and took a washing on it.

[sunman]

i've owned a 2003 C320 since 02 and relatively no problems. I had a door control module go out till date.

[BenzOnline]

I have a 2001 C240. For a MB the quality is average car quality. Drives like a dream though but reliabilty is garbage too.

My other W202 which is not much older is night/day difference. Much better reliability and quality that I still cant believe the difference.

[mslc791]

I have '01 C240 6MT w/ almost 80k on the clock. Use it everyday and besides a few things like front stabilizer bar end ($25 part) and few bushings, it has been fantastic. And I blame the abundance of potholes (as the infrastructure is clearly in the poor state in this country) for the car's suspension issues.

Just my .02