I agree with the lighter handling and more responsiveness of the w202 vs w124. You'll really notice this with the AC on. The w124 is noticeably sluggish. The w202 is very Toyota/Honda like, i.e. barely noticeable and ice cold but still solid MBZ. The w124 seems primitive in comparison. This might differ with the I4 vs the V6 though. The latest 722.6s are pretty much ironed out. Mine has been perfect. I am not aware of any evaporator or blower issues.

As ikchris mentions, it is a 10 year old car, but with relatively lo miles. You have the advantage vs the seller when buying an older car. And of course at 10 years it may have problems, but that is what PPIs are for (more leverage for bargaining), and that is why we DIY and besides a new Honda or Toyota is 4X the cost.

glenmore
1991 300CE
2000 C280