The 1996 C280 is about as bullet proof a car that Mercedes has ever made. If that thing is not rock solid, then something is not right. While there is potential for trouble in two areas, leaking head gasket and self destructing engine wiring ala later model W124s, the problems are well understood and easily remedied. If yours has the newer, "fixed" stuff, great. If not, it's an easy fix. The one area I would pay attention to is the "sport" wheels. The standard 1996 C220 and C280 came with 15 inch wheels, 6.5 inch wide riding on 195/65 rubber. I think the sport, and later year W202s, came with bigger, wider wheels and rubber. I've heard many folks with the bigger set up report the need for early front suspension work, especially the lower ball joints. The W202 chassis, paired with the M104 and 722.4 transmission, is arguably the most robust package that Mercedes has made in the last ten years. It should last quite some time. The W202 combines the good stuff from W124 solidity but builds on chassis personality inherited from the W140. In short, it's a great blend of old world craftsmanship and solidity combined with modern era handling performance and driving comfort. Good luck with it and ENJOY!!!

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Michael

1988 300 SL (5 Speed)
1994 E320 Wagon
1997 C230