Mercedes: Mercedes 05 C230 Sport, mercedes benz club, kelly blue book

Question
Hi Robert,
I have a chance to buy a 320 Kompressor sport it's an 05 44,000 miles and is in good condition.  I got her down to 14700 but I might be able to go lower on the price.  I am worried about the repairs brakes or etc.  I know Germans make good cars and it would last for a while but I don't want to keep making expensive repairs.
Do you think it is worth to buy?
What price do you think I should offer and do these cars have alot of repairs?
Thanks

Answer
Hello Steve,
I cannot speak specifically to your model vehicle, and if you were taking other models... I have a 86 420SEL I could not recommend it because the parts are much more expensive than a toyota or similar vehicle. I have my vehicle up for sale and hope I do not have a major breakdown because it would probably cost more than the vehicle is worth.

I have owned this vehicle at about the same price as a domestic vehicle because I do my own work and shope ebay etc for parts. I have never and would never use a dealer to service or repair my vehicles.
Independent shops will generally provide better and less expensive service. I would also recommend that you join a local Mercedes Benz club, as they have very good resources.
I joined Benz World on the web and it has been an invaluable resource for information on this  car.

Regarding your particular vehicle, here is a web address:  
http://www.benzworld.org/forums/w203-c-class/1357508-2003-2004-2005-c230-kompres...

that should give you some idea about the car you have in mind.

I would suggest that you run a CarFax check on the vehicle. You will need the Vehicle Identification Number and that will provide you with a way to get the information you need.

Also, check Kelly blue book on the web or a similar site to get a market price and that will help in your negotiation on price.

Good Luck,
Let me know what you find out and if you have additional questions.
Robert