Used Cars: I need advice on weather buying new or used, mercedes c240 2004, honda city

Question
Hello.
I am currently confused as to whether to buy a new car or a used one. I was searching and finally came out with what i think is the best deal for my budget. A Mercedes C240 2004 or a Honda City 2009. I am very confused because i don't know anything about the Mercedes' past but i am sure not to pay a nickel on the honda, also i got the all risk insurance in it. They have the same price. But what is doubting about the Honda is that it's steel is not like the Mercedes' steel, it is less rigid. I hope you can help me with my decision, and tell me what is better.

Answer
These are both well built vehicles, but the mercedes is going to be a lot tougher built.  These 2 are pretty good choices, and it really just depends on what you are trying to get out of a vehicle.  The Honda is probably going to do quite a bit better on gas mileage, and the Honda is probably going to be your overall best bang for the buck.  Mercedes' are really, really good vehicles, but when they brake, it cost a lot more to work on them.  And even with the Honda not being as well built as the Mercedes, they are still some of the safest vehicles on the road.  The mercedes is more for people who want to show off that they have money, a lot of what you pay for a mercedes is the name.  The mercedes will be a more refined ride and drive, it will be smoother and quieter, but not enough reason for me to pick it over a honda.  So unless you are just loaded with  $$$$, I would probably go with the Honda.  The issue of the Mercedes being made with steel and the honda being made with reinforced aluminum would have no bearing on my decision on which to purpose, it would be all about best fuel mileage, safety, ease of repairs as a whole, vs. the Mercedes name plate.