W203 buyers guide and general questions

[6fire]

Following a thread I posted in GG, my parents are looking at Merc C class estates of W203 vintage. They're probably looking at a 180k or 200k engine and at the sort of price point they're looking at, they'll be looking at 100,000 mile examples.

So - is there a buyers guide available anywhere? My google-fu must be weak because i can't find anything. Also, any general points on things to look for or be aware of? Was the W203 crippled by rust problems like it's predecessor?

Should they decide to look at diesels, what are they like for longevity and reliability?

Many thanks in advance.

[welsh blackbird]

I suggest you check here:-

http://forums.mercedesclub.org.uk/

Pre 2004 ones rust the most. They also suffer from auto box issues (anti freeze in gearbox oil), plus lots of other things - I think my one had them all!

Good luck - there are some good ones out there!

[Dog Star]

Pre-2004 - don't touch. RUST!!!!
We got rid of our W203 coupe a few months ago. Drove great, lovely interior, but the bodywork was shocking - a great scabrous mass of rust patches. All this on a garaged, pampered car.