Speaking for myself, I had a 1998 C230 that I purchased in Dec. 2000 with 38,000 miles and I sold in in July 2007 with 150,000. Most reliable car I have ever owned (out of about 15).

Besides preventative and ongoing maintenance, I spent maybe $300.00 on repairs.

Welcome to the forum and good luck with your search.

__________________
Anders

1995 E300
2015 VW TDI Sportwagen 15K
1977 240D (197K)
2002 Subaru Legacy L Wagon (115k) (Wife's)
Gone but not forgotten:
2005 Buick LeSabre
1998 C230
1984 300D
1983 240D
1981 300SD
1974 240D
1974 Fiat 124 Spider
1968 Triumph TR250