estate with a bit of go

[DKL]

I'm after a family wagon with a bit of go. I was looking at B10 tourings but a c or e class amg would be nice. Incredibly the c class has a bigger boot than a 5 series. and the e class is huge.
A bit of digging suggests the c32 rusts more and is more expensive to keep than a c55 but they are a bit cheaper. Anything I've missed?

I have found 2 c55 close ish. Has anyone seen the cars at cotswold sports
http://cotswoldmotorsport.com/our-vehicles/2004-me...

or one in thatcham?
http://www.cscarsthatcham.co.uk/used-cars/mercedes...

No decent e55 from the same era that I can see.

It wouldn't do many miles but would be a nice drive.

Any thoughts gratefully received

Cheers

David

Edited by DKL on Wednesday 8th July 19:49

[mini me]

Great cars, had mine just over three months now and its been great fun. properly comfy, nicely wafty but then turns into a bit of an animal when you want it to. Even did a track day in it last month although its pretty heavy for track use it was still immense fun.

I could be wrong but I think that first one you listed was for sale when I was looking. Could be a reason for it hanging around so long but then thee days most people shy away from large engined old cars eh.

Things to look out for:

keys, make sure it has two and they both work. They are ~ 200 quid to replace.

Heated seats, check they work on both the base and backrest. Very common for them to go on the base. OEM fix = new seat base apparently, Not cheap although there are kits you can get to fix this.

Oil leaks from top cover gaskets quite common apparently as are the pilot bush on g box. easy to sort but worth looking for obvious leaks.

Suspension bushes are apparently common so check for knocks etc.


lastly, service.. At that sort of mileage they will be close to needing a big service. This includes spark plugs, 16 of them! try and get one thats already been done if you can. I was quoted ~1300 from Mercedes to change every filter, fluid and plugs. independent significantly cheaper.

Find a good independent.

Enjoy.

[DKL]

I drove the car in thatcham today. Very nice and probably good value for a 50k car. But as e55k cars are about the same price I'm going to look there I think. Would like 7 seats ,a sunroof, sub 100k and ideally black or even a colour!
Just got to keep my eyes open.

[mini me]

Not sure about E55 but I know the C55 was only available in black or silver. Good luck with the search.