Thanks Mctwin and Benzito for your replies. I still reckon its something to do with the fuel delivery because the sparks appear to be firing, but if no fuel comes into the cylinder, it won't burn and the pistons will stop working. I don't think it is the electrical side because the engine works even for the first few seconds. However, the second starting always goes on properly without anymore fuss. So this happens only with a cold start. Does this clue ring any bells out there? My older 1994 C180 has no starting problems as it has a 2yr old fuel pump and filter. How old these are in the 1997 model I don't really know. Maybe they are the original ones??? How can I tell? The service records do not indicate any changes to these parts. Also if I step on the accelerator as soon as the engine fires, it won't die off. So fuel supply is a definite issue here. Thinking hats out again folks, thanks and cheers!