W204 - advice needed

W204 - advice needed

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Wedgepilot

Original Poster:

819 posts

288 months

Tuesday 22nd September 2020
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I'm in the market for a sensible kids+dog car, and thought a low mileage C-class estate might fit the bill nicely. I've never had a Merc before, so it's a good chance to scratch that itch at the same time. Budget is around £7k, probably going for diesel and automatic.

Is there anything specific to watch for with this model? Is the facelift worth it? Any must-have options (or options that aren't worth it)? Is it worth finding a 7-speed? Would a 200 CDI be dog-slow? Is this "artico leather" thing ok? All advice appreciated smile

Thanks!


LordLoveLength

2,018 posts

135 months

Wednesday 23rd September 2020
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Facelift is much nicer inside and better economy otherwise much the same.

Pan roof is a nice option, also Comand sat nav. Gives you more music options (hdd & sd) and bigger screen
Comand equipped cars have a globe icon top right of the screen on the menus.
Both make car easier to sell but don’t attract a big premium.

Mercs need to be auto. Not much call for manuals and the box suits the car well.

Engines are good enough, biggest issue is worn timing chain - will rattle for a few seconds on cold start if worn.

Artico leather seems ok, but needs to in good condition as it’s difficult to repair apparently.


Wedgepilot

Original Poster:

819 posts

288 months

Wednesday 23rd September 2020
quotequote all
That's a good tip about Comand equipped cars, I didn't know that - and I'll do a bit more research on the timing chain issue. Thanks!

anonymous-user

59 months

Thursday 24th September 2020
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Wedgepilot said:
That's a good tip about Comand equipped cars, I didn't know that - and I'll do a bit more research on the timing chain issue. Thanks!
I thought the timing chain only really effected the petrol supercharged M271 engines? I looked at one of these recently and it had the tell tale noise on start up. You know damn well that the previous owner took it to a garage and the mechanic advised to get shot of it now.

I have looked at the 220 CDi, but is it me or is it a bit agricultural? I drive a shed megane 1.5 DCi (same basic engine as in the A class now, the K9K) and I was surprised at how rough the 220 CDI engine felt?

Have to say, I would probably try and find a six cylinder diesel if I could.

quinny100

954 posts

191 months

Thursday 24th September 2020
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The 220 and 250 CDI engines are a bit rough and noisy at idle and low speed, particularly when cold.

They're OK once you're up to speed. It's just the way they are.

W204 C350 CDI is a nice motor - but comparatively rare compared to the 4 cyl cars. Snap one up if the opportunity arises.