My existing 1999 C230K is running well but is showing its age with a few rust blooms and 266,000 km (165,000 miles). It has been a reliable car and very easy to maintain. On the other hand - its winter defrost and foot well heating is poor, and it does not have heated seats.

So I'm looking for a replacement vehicle. I looked at broad range of vehicles including Lexus and Toyota but believe that I would be happier in a MB. I'm also an old school type of person and I like analog gauges, wood grain trim, leather seating, the MB driving characteristics, and most of the Mercedes' designs. I only drive about 6000 km/year (about 3500 miles) because I have access to a company vehicle. I am not seeking to win any races but prefer a vehicle that has strong performance yet provides a stable and quiet ride.

After looking through what appears to meet my objectives - I am favouring the following, in order of preference:

2001-02 CLK 320/430
2012-14 E Class (not sure which engine)
1998-99 W140/C140 S/CL 500
maybe the 2012-14 GLK 350

This list seems to avoid the problematic models (wiring harnesses, tendency to rust, unreliable electrical components, first year models, overall reputation). Yea, I know the W/C140 may hit all the "wrong" buttons but it appears that a well maintained later year model may be relatively reliable. I have the resources to do a lot of the work myself as I have with my C230K with the help from this site and elsewhere. I will only consider those models that have been properly maintained, have the records, have relatively low mileage, and I'm willing to pay the premium that such a car may demand (unless absurdly high).

Any comments from your experiences? Am I missing anything in this list? Am I being too optimistic?

I sure look forward to your comments and thanks in advance!

__________________
1989 300E
1999 C230 Kompressor
2005 Toyota Highlander AWD

Also owned:
1964 Chevrolet Impala (first car)
1972 Fiat 124 Sport Spider (first sports car)
1976 VW Scirocco (first new car)
1970 Pontiac Parisienne (epitome of bland)
1980 VW Scirocco (last new car)
1953 GMC 6x6 (amazingly well engineered)
1967 Austin Healey 3000
1987 F150 4x4
1978 F150
1987 VW Jetta
1992 Toyota Previa AWD
2003 Toyota Sienna
2001 Nissan Pathfinder 4WD
1949 John Deere Model M