If trans doesnt grind in reverse, and it doesn't jar you too badly on any of the kickdowns, that's a bonus. I got a good 20k out of reverse after it started grinding. 25k with an atrocious 3-2 kickdown issue, still going forward at 180k

As for ASR, at this point in life, if the ETA hasn't been changed, I'd be amazed. Everybody maligns ASR on these cars, but if you've felt it kick in at part-throttle when pulling out in traffic, you know it just saved your ass from ending up in the woods, especially when it's wet outside. ASR is a great feature, and most of them have it

Same as any Benz; get a PPI. The issues mentioned in the other posts are correct. My car probably needs $6k in work (new trans, shocks, bushings, ball joints. motor and trans mounts) to feel like a prime example. Even in moderately-average condition, these cars are still a joy to drive

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former: 83 300D, 97 C230, 93 400E

current: 08 C300 Luxury , 92 500SL