Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate (2000 - 2007) C320 CDI Avantgarde SE 5d Auto (2005/55) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

That I have bought with my head.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

My brother-in-law is deparate to buy it when I sell it.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, but the newer C350 is not that different and for me not worth yet paying the massive premium for little performance or economy gain.

What are you likely to buy next?

The same but newer, but I have looked at a Peugeot 508 RXH Estate as it's a diesel hybrid and may have big tax advantages.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchised

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£12,000

When did you buy the car?

January 2011

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes, because it was the exact spec I was looking for and I was prepared to pay a little extra for that.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

It's fast and very economical and good for many thousands of miles. It currently has 106,000 miles on it and drives like a new car.

What was the dealer like?

Excellent

What's it like to drive?

Absolutely excellent. Very, very quick when you're trying and completely docile when you're cruising but averaging over 40mpg for a 3.0-litre car!

What's it like to park?

Easy, it's got parking sensors.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Yes, twice. A small leak below the turbo has caused the inlet valves to seize (twice) with a repair cost of £800 or so. There is meant to have been a modified inlet valve fitted but it's made no difference, so i'm expecting it to keep going wrong every 20k miles or so.

What's most practical about your car?

It's fast, roomy and comfortable.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Brilliant cruise control.