Used 1997 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Consumer Reviews
Good News
I purchased the car with 163000 at a dealer in Dallas. The car had a small oil leak and transmission leak. I repaired both for under $300.00 and I have enjoyed every minute. It never fails to start and I am getting 24city 34highway. The leather and dash are in excellent condition. Mercedes really knows how to make a car that last. This is a sedan although, with the sunroof and short body with great steering capabilities it feels like a sports car. I would rate the reliability a 10. I would not think twice about driving this car out of state anytime. I is really inexpensive to maintain because it has a 4cyl gasoline engine. You just have to use premium gas, although, the mpg's make it up.
It Should Have Been Better
Had a few minor defects at the beginning but the real problem has been long term reliability. Left me stranded twice between 52,000 and 58,000 miles-once for a failed air mass sensor and intake flapper valve and second for a bad fuel pressure regulator.
- C230 SedanMSRP: $3,6681,091 mi away
If only it down shift faster
I got it used last year and so far there is no problem. The only thing I had to replaced is the fan belt. The car runs runs good, I tested 0-60 at 7.5 seconds! Better than M-Benz's data after it breaks in. The Fuel Econ is 21 per gallon. It has last interior (parts) noise than my brother's 97 BMW 528. It has more room than a BMW 3 series. However, the seat up and down feature does not move the whole seat. The 5 speeds transmission works good at high speed, it speeds up fast even with the last gear. But the transmission down shift to slow, the kick down has a 1 second delay! Also, the auto climate control does not respond as fast as it should be.
blast the 1/4 mile-- NOT
great entry level MB-- just dont get into a hurry merging into traffic. Also, be aware of the shrinking cabin area. After some time, I am convinced that something causes the vehicle to slowly but surely decrease its interior space, thus severely cramping all occupants. Perhaps it is the "new" wearing off. And, if you're a large cup purchaser at the convenience store-- get ready to change your drinking habits, or wear your beverage. Still no real cup holders! All in all, sophisticated and comfortable, just don't plan on taking the kids and spouse on a road trip in this one-- opt for the larger E class!
'97 C280 Sport - An excellent buy
I purchased this car used with 45K miles. It was in excellent condition and still runs smooth. I added a 6-disc CD Changer but had to put it in the trunk. Car has handled quite well although maintenance can run high dollars...but then again, if you are buying a MB you need to realize that going into it. The car is fun for both myself and my wife to drive, but I use it for work. When I have more than two people, seating can be cramped in back seat. Other than that, the car runs smooth and sweet.