26th Apr 2007, 06:20
I bought a brand new C200 in 1995. It was a reliable car. But when I test drive a BMW 3 series, it is obvious that a Merc is no where near a BMW in terms of performance, ride, handling, steering feel, stability at high speed etc. I wonder why people pay so much for a Merc (including myself, which I regret it very much). Since then, I have already bought 3 BMW. I sold E36 to buy an E46 and then a 5 Series. I am so very happy with BMW. I am pretty sure that those people who are happy with their Merc, never used a BMW in their life. A Peugeot, a Honda, Proton Perdana or a Citroen is better car to drive than a Merce.
4th Mar 2008, 01:02
Had a '95 C180 Esprit from Nov 2002 to May 2007.
Aside from the fact that I'm sure I overpaid (a dealer) too much @ AU$25,000 in '02, I must say that the car has performed well. It's ONLY a 1.8L engine running 1,300kgs, remember. The average Mitsubishi Lancer 1.8L 1995 is 300kgs lighter!!
So, for a start compare horses with horses: The question you have to ask is, would you rather have the Lancer or the Merc? I know my answer to that!
Overall I had very little trouble with the car throughout the time I had it. I bashed the catalytic converter on the edge of the side-walk when I first got it, would have cost $2500 but paid only $500 for an after-market one, lots noisier, but did the job.
Engine seemed to overheat in hot weather, but manufacturer assured me that's OK; in the end they were obviously right.
Had the odd problem with the instrument cluster, but nothing really serious (stupid dealer's electrician mis-diagnosed the problem and cost his boss AU$1,000!! Idiot, not my problem; speedo showed 96,000km less after that...
Trouble with the Esprit is it's a bit bare compared to more optioned cars, however I LOVED that grey/black very tough, very sweat-porous seat material, ultra comfortable in humid weather.
Otherwise, a VERY reliable, trouble free car, I simply cannot criticize the car except I do think Merc's should be VERY WARY of trying to compete in the cheaper car market. I will be very sorry to see Merc's reduced to Toyota level in the eyes of auto buyers.
26th May 2012, 11:40
I totally agree with the last comment, I have a C Class 180 Merc, and I love it.
20th Dec 2005, 13:12
My 1996 C230 had a rattle from the engine at idle when I bought it. My Mercedes mechanic diagnosed a worn out front pulley shock absorber tensioner. This was replaced at about $160 (NZ) which is about $US110. This is not an uncommon wear and tear item. I don't know if your engine has this shock tensioner though.