1997 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C230 2.3

Summary:

German quality - Solid vehicle

Faults:

Nothing yet, but I've only had it for a month!

General Comments:

This is a really solid well built car. I bought it because it was cheap, had a full service history, and because it was a Mercedes! Feels very safe inside when driving it. I love how everything is so well made and does not have a cheap feel to it.

The engine is sluggish, but if you put your foot down it really moves. Not bad for a 2.3L with a heavy body. On the maintenance side: Parts can be expensive. Eg. Battery costs $215. The best thing is to shop around, if you don't desperately need the part. (Ebay etc).You will save a ton of money if you avoid dealerships, and can do the basic maintenance yourself. A very comfortable car to drive.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 21st February, 2007

5th Jul 2007, 12:36

6 months now and still going strong! I have done a few maintenance jobs myself and have had no problems. A minor annoyance is an idle problem stopping at traffic lights. It will briefly shudder as if it's going to stall, but then it's OK. I would have a problem owning another car that was not superbly well put together as this one is. I have had many comments abut how nice it looks, and quite a few admiring glances from passers by! Will update you again in a few months....

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1997 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C-280 6 cylinder

Summary:

Perfect

Faults:

My fan clutch failed at 43,000 miles -it cost $100 to replace.

The oxygen sensor failed at 49,000 miles - it cost about $75.00 to replace.

General Comments:

I am pleased with this car. It is roomy for it's size. It is not a sports car, but it handles well. I would recommend this car to anyone.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 20th September, 2004

1997 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C36 AMG Inline 6

Summary:

A high performance bargain! YES

Faults:

Air mass sensor has gone out twice, the fix was FREE from the dealer. But to save money on towing costs, buy one ($230) and keep it in the car to swap, using a screw driver.

A/C control lights went out, $6. plus $80 labor(scum).

Transmission needed to be rebuilt at 66k. DARN! just passed warranty! No word FREE here, cost $1700. Which is not bad considering what kind of transmission it is (5-speed auto with quick shift program).

Note: If you can, buy the dealer extended warranty.

General Comments:

This was truly built by AMG. The motor was taken apart and put back together by AMG.

You get what you pay for! Maybe even more than you'll ever know.

C36 AMG, have fun!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 28th January, 2002

28th Sep 2005, 13:19

I own a 1996 C-36 AMG. Mileage was 92k when purchased about a year ago. Now has 102k. This has been the best car I have ever owned. It is equipped with the MUCH more reliable 4 speed auto trans. Handling is very sharp, turn in is good, and tracks like it is on rails. Power is quite strong, 268hp and 290ft-lb of torque. Power delivery is very smooth due to the high torque curve. To this point I have encountered none of the dreded wiring harness or MAF sensor issues, although it did require an ignition control module replacement.

As with all low production, rare cars, careful inspection is vital before buying. The cost to have the car checked by a competent tech is the best money you will ever spend.

This car is the first official product of AMG and Mercedes. It is of the highest build quality available at that time. The motor is completely hand assembled and tested by ONE person with a daily quota of ONE motor per day.

The car gives me a smile every time I drive it and well received wherever I take it. The value for money is great. The cars sold when new for $52,000, and the cars can be had for under $20,000. I paid $16,000 for mine in 9+ condition, mechanicly and cosmeticly. If one is patient and finds a good clean example, you can't go wrong with a C-36. Good luck!

12th Mar 2006, 21:33

Hey... Just wanted to ask why you switched from an NSX to a C36?

I bought my 97 C36 (with a lot of mileage! 145,000 miles!) 2 months ago & I'm very happy with it. It's mechanically & cosmetically perfect! But I found a 97 NSX with low mileage for a very reasonable price, $24,000...

Would you advise me to buy it or stick with C36?

Thanks.

13th Mar 2006, 10:02

I had a 1998 C230 (the basis for your car) for two years from new. It wasn't horribly unreliable, but it had things go wrong that simply shouldn't, like a power seat failing at 10K miles. Unacceptable for a Mercedes.

The mid-late 1990's until recently saw a dramatic decline in Mercedes quality as Mercedes tried to compete with Lexus and other Japanese brands while swallowing Chrysler.

My advice, assuming you don't need four doors, is to get rid of the C36 and get an NSX, a much more reliable car, tire issues aside.

3rd Dec 2009, 00:32

The last comment is a very bad advice...

30th Dec 2009, 17:27

Yes, horrible advice...

17th Jun 2010, 23:41

Impossible advice...

8th Feb 2011, 00:56

Hey guys,

I was wondering what you all think for an 1997 C-class C36 with 150K, cosmetic and mechanical condition? Seems pretty good for $ 3350.00.

It's an old car thinking it's 2011, but that's why I am asking your opinion, and also do you know if there is any way to change their head lights because it has the old style ones, pretty ugly...

1997 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C280 Sport 2.8 straight six

Summary:

It may not be quick, but it will always have class

Faults:

The radio deck was replaced a few times, but all under warranty.

General Comments:

The car handles great! The Sport Package adds the stiffer suspension, steering, 15" AMG wheels, and the anti-roll bars, so the car corners great and is not to loose feeling at high speeds.

The acceleration is amazing, and people are always surprised to find out it has a straight six. The look on their face when I open the hood is priceless! I will never buy another make of car. Mercedes is for life!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 18th July, 2001

9th Sep 2002, 09:50

I agree. I owned a C280 Sport straight 6 myself and I absolutely loved the car. Great engine, nice combination of smallish size and great comfort.

2nd Aug 2009, 15:43

I agree.

Previously owned a V8 Lexus LS400, and much prefer my C-280 Sport.

Better gas mileage, quicker, and just more stylish.

Love it!!!

1997 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C280 2.8 L6

Summary:

There is simply no compromise between a C280 and others!

Faults:

The rear window switch failed at around 32000 miles.

There was a spark plug misfiring during the 31000 miles, causing the check engine light to be turned on.

General Comments:

I will try to keep this car as long as I can since this is the last traditional straight six engine MB will ever offer while it comes with a 5 speed auto box.

C280 perfects in many ways in sport and elegance. The car is well built and solid.

The only comment that I have is that MB should sell this car with a 17 inch instead of 15 inch rims. As a result, I have to pay additional for a set of AMG rims which handle the car quite nicely.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 27th February, 2001

1997 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C280 C 2.8

Faults:

Nothing so far.

General Comments:

Nicest car I have ever driven. Smooth drive, feel no bumps from the road, great service from the dealership.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 29th June, 1998