The C class like yours is a mercedes that actually compares to the japanese cars. And you paid about 12K more. A used merc especially pre 2000 is a better deal then the japanese cars and feel moe solid. But i would take a 2004 Accord over your 2000 C Class anyday considering i get a newer car that is more cost effective with leather seats, cd changer and all the goodies for the same price approx. When u go into the E class, S class, Slk's and actually anything over the C class is when merc diffrentiates itself from the japanese and can be worth paying the price.