opinions about a '98 C230 kompressor

[Piotr]

My co-worker is planning a test drive of a 1998 C230 kompressor with 59,000 miles on it. Dealer asks $17,000.
1) how overpriced is that?
2) what is he supposed to look for (I told him maint. records, check all switches and power dohickies, radio, test drive starting with a cold engine, pay att. to tranny shifts, vibration during a drive).
3) any persistent probs with that particular model?

Thanks

[mbdoc]

In the USA the 1998 the C230 didn't have a KOMPRESSOR.
However the 1999 model did have the Kompressor.
If the car is a 1999 that isn't a bad deal & he gets the Starmark warranty

[blackmercedes]

Originally posted by Piotr
3) any persistent probs with that particular model?

Thanks

It depends on what year the car is. If it is a 1998, then it is not a Kompressor car, and there are no long term worries about the supercharger. If it is a 1999, then you get the extra horsepower of the blown engine, but the engine is not as refined and there are some concerns about over100K-mile reliability of the Eaton supercharger.

The M111 engine itself (either in M111.974 form in the 1998 or M111.975 form in the 1999) is durable. No headgasket problems, or anything else engine related.

There are some things that are pretty common to all W202 1996- M111 equipped cars:

1. Belt tensioner and shock needs replacing every 4-5 years.

2. Blower motor needs replacing every 4-5 years.

3. In areas with really bad roads, front lower ball joints wear out every 4-5 years.

4. As in most late model MB's, final drive seals may leak.

And that's about it. Overall, the 1996- W202 cars are Japanese like in their reliability.

[Piotr]

Actually, it's a 1997 C 230 Kompressor. Sorry!.

[blackmercedes]

In the US? MB did not import a C230 Kompressor for model year 1997. It sounds like a 1997 C230 with a Kompressor badge, perhaps?

[Piotr]

hmmm, could be an error in listing, too. well, I conveyed the posts to the guy. he's going to check it out tomorrow. anyway, that's 2x what he knew about it.

thanx, guys!