Second-Hand Sense: The news that the current C-Class Mercedes is set for a fairly minor revision is a reminder that even the most established of names have to ensure they keep up with the times.
And the C-Class is perhaps the most established name in its sector, although I imagine a lot of 3 Series BMW owners would disagree. Although so too might some C-Class owners - some are of the view that the current model is not a match for the car that was on sale until 2000. As a '99 model owner I would tend to agree, especially when it comes to interior space.
The C-Class, on the whole, has a well-established reputation. The base model might not be the most exciting car to drive and the manual gearbox is enough to drive you to distraction but as a solid, well built and dependable car it is hard to beat. Its design, even that of the pre-2000 model, is elegant and understated. Nor does it, as the 3 Series BMW tends to, show up older male drivers as rather sad cases.
The C-Class is a very good second-hand buy and, unlike other cars, high mileage models are not as risky a buy. The car is built to last. Ride and handling are fine but, as I mentioned, not exciting and performance is smooth and sufficient. The pre-2000 models are more boxy than the cars that replaced them, but they still have a certain distinctive profile. Rear space is slightly cramped when front seats are anyway extended rearwards. This problem is more pronounced on the post-2000 models.
The current car has a good EuroNCAP crash rating, but older models were criticised for excessive intrusion into the footwell area, with stiff structures representing a serious threat to the driver's knee, thigh and pelvis. The door-mounted supplementary airbags were also slow to inflate, presenting potentially serious chest injuries.
Few cars retain their value like a Mercedes. A four-year-old basic C 180 with 43,000 on the clock is on offer at one garage at 21,950, while a similar two-year-old model with 36,000 on the clock is on offer at 36,750. The newer models are certainly better equipped than the older ones. Basic equipment on newer cars includes six airbags, brake assist and ABS and an electronic stability programme.
The petrol versions are obviously more refined than the diesel models - indeed Mercedes is a late convert to advanced diesel technology. The old Mercedes 190 Diesel must rate as one of the great motoring embarrassments of all time.
Buyers should also be aware that Mercedes cars now offer different levels of trim and equipment, ranging from Classic to Avant Garde. As you pay significantly more you get significantly more, even on the second-hand market. In this regard it is certainly well worth your while seeking out an automatic version and possible one with leather upholstery or air conditioning.
The car is not known for giving major problems. In fact, Mercedes had the ninth lowest warranty repair costs in Britain in 2003 and breakdown rates are average across the range. However, there are some problems. Wiper mechanisms and catalytic converter units - both expensive to replace - are prone to problems and the 250 diesel model has had problems with glow plug failure.