They are nuts, offer them $10k tops as is. Their is a silver 1997 E320 sitting down the street from me that is mint. A local import dealer is selling it, mileage is unkown but probably about 100k. Their are no cosmetic flaws inside or outside and I am picky if their is something wrong I will notice it. He is asking $12,100 and would probably let it go for $11,500.

In my area you can get decent W210's for $10k-$13k.

Cherry examples are $16k+.

Or tell the dealer to fix the engine problem, preform a major service, fix all cosmetic flaws and throw in new Mich tires and brakes. Then you will pay them $15k. For $15,999 tell them you also want a good waranty on top of all that.

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2006 CL500
2009 C300 4matic
1969 280SE
2023 Ram 1500
2007 Tiara 3200