Thanks for the comments
I appereciate that all cars break down - i dont expect miracles from even a Merc - what does worry me is what i consider significant rust on a five year old vehicle - i wouldnt expect this on any modern car. surface rust must be a result of some paint failure or other - I have read of horror stories regarding rust on mid to late '90's mercs .
I want to buy this car- as i said earlier it has an excellent provenence and drives like a dream- i dont want to end up driving somehting that will develop random paint failure.
thanks
c