I'm in the market for a 4dr. The old Volvo 945 went to the daughter upon her college graduation so that's gone, wife's got the 560SL and I have the F150. No vehicle appropriate to haul guests about.

So I wouldn't mind an S class but they are a bit out of my current price range (did see a '90 560SEL but it is a bit rough). Have also seen some nice clean E320's ('99 & '00) with about 140k on them and a C230 Sport with 89k.

I would be thankful for any words of wisdom concerning these models or others I haven't mentioned but should know about.

Any suggestions?

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1999 E320 (gave to daughter) 250K
1994 F150 (may be the end of its road) 240K
1989 560 SL (Reassembly after paint job) 160K
1986 560 SL (deceased., gave it's life protecting my wife)
1988 300 TE (departed)
1994 945T (still running strong with an upgraded cam) 349K
1986 242Ti (deceased)
1968 GT500KR (under restoration)

Here is my humble opinion.
C-class: Fuel efficient, pretty reasonable operating costs.
E-class: A little bigger and " more car " for the money. Not sure about operating costs, as I'm on my second " C ".
S-class Parts & service costs may dull your spirits somewhat, as these tend to be very sophisticated vehicles.

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2007 C 230 Sport.

Not sure of your price range but a W124 500E / E500 ( $14K-$20K )will give you a great ride along with exclusivity and appreciating value.

For a bit less the W124 400E / E420 ( $6K-$10K ) are reasonable.

Both not laden with electronics, easy to work on, parts available for the DIY'er and one of the best Mercs ever built !

A C-class would be too small for such a task, unless you are hauling midgets in the back seat. Your best bet is a W124. Not quite as big as the current E, but definitely roomier than a C. Very easy to work on, too, with minimal electronics. I would go with a 300E.

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08 W251 R350
97 W210 E320
91 W124 300E
86 W126 560SEL
85 W126 380SE Silver
85 W126 380SE Cranberry
79 W123 250
78 W123 280E
75 W114 280