Trading up to W202

[sawman]

Having run my relaible but slightly rusty W201 for the last 6 months in that time I have fixed a few things but I got it cheap, I am wondering about the wisdom of trading up to a W202 estate that is near me. Its a C280. the benefit to me is that its a bit newer, less miles, air con and a bit bigger with it being the estate, which might be handy whilst I spend a fair bit of time towing my sailing dinghy.

I know the 190 is the last great merc, but how do the W202's stack up as a shed proposition

[sawman]

just to update this - been to have a look at the w202. It started on the button and seemed quiet to drive - all good so far, the paintwork is rough, with surface rust to wheel arches, door bottom and along the top of the trim across the bottom 1/3 of a couple of doors.

looks like a previous owner had tried to tidy it up with rattle can

For 600 notes, what d'yer think?

[mickyveloce]

202's are generally good reliable slightly dull cars. rust Is usually superficial but other issues with the 280 can include headgasket and wiring loom problems depending whether v6 or straight 6.
if you need a tow car, 600 is not much money for an estate but you may be better looking at a passat which would rust less .
190 is always going to be more desirable .

[sawman]

The one I looked at was V6

I was surprised how much biggest the w202 felt compared to my 190. I will probably get back what I paid for the 190, so essentially all its cost me is the bits and bobs I have had done (rear road springs, and a ball joint). I don't think the ride is quite as smooth as the old gal either - would that sound normal