Among these, what model is least likely to bang?

[CM2020]

among these, which one is least likely to go bang, meaning throw a big bill and breakdown on me, if bought cheap? In other words, which ones is most reliable?

CLK W208 200 or 203
CLK W209 200
CLC -The hatchback Coupes
W124 Coupe. So really C124. One of the 4 cyl.


I'm talking cars with a MOT, but bought in the cheaper side of the spectrum. Most likely high mileage. From least to most likely to give trouble? Thank you.

[ZX10R NIN]

The 209 is a much better proposition than the 208 mainly because rust isn't an issue & then there's the much better chassis & suspension set up on the 209.

The CLC is a good pick if you want a hatchback, the drivetrains are well proven & reliable.

[CM2020]

Thank you for your contribution.

Perhaps a detail worth mentioning is that all of them are in the same price range. So the W209 for the same price as a W208 will be higher mileage and maybe in not as nice condition as the W208. Unless the W208 has already started appreciating in price. But I doubt it.

Basically all cars in that list I could get for about the same money.

Any opinions about the C124?

[ZX10R NIN]

I love the 124 but I'd be looking to spend 5+k on a nice one, with a limited budget I'd still be looking for a 209 or 2003 onwards C Coupe.

[CM2020]

I also love the 124. The one I found has about 150K miles and MOT till next summer. It looks in good condition. Leather interior and manual gearbox. Although not the sportline. So not the more desirable getrag.

Most are saying the 124 is stronger and would give less problems than any Mercedes from the 2000s, which would include W209 and the C coupe.

[ZX10R NIN]

Unless it has receipts to show it's been done with that mileage you're at the least looking at a full suspension refresh (as you would with any car with those miles) then there's the rust plus age related issues.

I'd still be buying the 209 but this would be my starting point for a CE:

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Mercedes-300CE-Coupe-W1...

[CM2020]

I understand what you mean. But the W209 examples in the same price range are also 150K miles cars. Same with W208 examples.

[CM2020]

But so a W209 would be preferable over a W208 or W124, even if high mileage or higher mileage?

[ZX10R NIN]

For me yes if you're looking to buy cars with 140k on them then get the newest car you can, how much are you spending?