My, my, my. Thanks for all of the replies. I was not expecting so many differnet responses.

Not to sound standoffish, but one that has be baffled is the one about the negatice comments on the "blue" interior. I think it is a matter of personal taste and not a reason to discard or degrade this car. I actually really like the interior color on this car, but it would be nice if it were a slightly darker shade of blue. My current Mercedes has blue interior and I like it very much. I do not think the interior color would stop me from buying it. If that were the case, I would never had mentioned the car here.

Funny- I have heard the statement- "cheap Mercedes is the worst Mercedes". Not always true. I paid only $1000 for mine about a year ago (including delivery) and have had no major issues and it has never left me stranded (knock on wood). Occasional stalling when hot, but it always restarts and I have been told it was a vacuum issue. Tranny is still strong and engine still runs well, despite 267K miles. This 96' is priced at $12K and while that may be pocket change to some "money fortunate" people here, it is not pocket change to me and I would have to have the car financed.

At any rate, from what I have gathered, it seems like the 1996 and newer models up to 1999 seem to be decent cars now.

I am still undecided though, because there are other cars I am considering (brand new and used), but saw this MB and thought it looked nice and priced decent. I thought that service records and current maintainence was a plus. BTW - I looked it up on KBB and PPV (private party value) for that car is $9700, so the $12K price does seem rather steep. I like to get cars for at least the PPV and not the retail value.

Thanks again in advance. The advice was most appreciated. I will keep you posted.