You say GM=reliable and mention the engine only.

The 103 engine is very durable as well, and if it was maintained, is perhaps among the least likely trouble/cost factors on the car you will need to consider. For example, my motor has never once been opened up, and I am not alone. Runs sweet.

I'm not certain that a 6-year old GM is going to cost you so much less in annual maintenance. Perhaps it will have an advantage for the first year or 2 due to its 'newness', but perhaps it was not maintained either, and history suggests the total expected lifespan is not like an MB.

Look ahead at how long you intend to keep the car, and what it might cost over time in depreciation, repairs, and everything.

Then consider your daily driving experience. You should like your car, at least to some extent.

For a seasonal car, the RWD may not be what you want.

Many factors to consider.
Also remember, this is the place where folks come to complain.
See if you can find a GM board, and see what those owners are griping about. Should prove interesting...

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1986 300E 5-Speed 240k mi.

Yes I understand your point. My ex girlfriend and I purchased a 98 Grand Prix GTP together and over the course of our 4 year relationship the car required nothing but gas and oil. We bought the car with 86k on the clock it had turned 166k when we broke up and nothing major broke other than a blower motor for the heater/ac which costed $246 to repair at a dealership. The GTP is a very fun car to drive in my opinion, but I have always liked the Mercedes style as well. I'm sure with any car there will always be that wondering if the previous owner took care of it or not but thats just a chance we have to take with any used car. However ussually you can tell how well they have taken care of the car by how well the exterior and interior are because if those areas are in good shape they proabably did the same maintance wise.

insist on seeing receipts for work done.
speak to previous owner.

these cars have great survivability in case of accident.

a m.b.without a good maintenace history is usually a COSTLY mistake.

you will need to no doubt do a few things to it, [plan accordingly]
in purchase price.

air cond, oil leaks, radiator,water pump should have all been worked on by now.

if you want to see at night be prepared to buy some euro lights.

400.00-500.00 range

i love my '92, but it requires proper maintenace.

what are they asking?
it's not off e-bay is it?

peter

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*92 400e 124.034, SOLD

*92 300e 124.030, SOLD

Well, at least she did not get the Porsche in the 'settlement'...

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1986 300E 5-Speed 240k mi.