Just wanted to add my $0.02 on the 96 C220. I have a 95 C220 with 101K miles, and it just purrs. Bought it two years ago with 58K miles, and the only big things that I've had to have done (other than religious preventative maintenance) are:

1. Front Flex Disk
2. Blower motor (old one started squeaking at about 70-75K)
3. Front Rotors and pads (more of a wear item than anything)
4. Front Bumper, grille, and passenger side mirror (three separate hit and runs, there are some real a**holes out there)

Good luck!

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98 e430, 55K