Mercedes CLK Kompressor

ionapaul

Hi all,

Have another thread up about my interest in buying a 04/05 3-series BMW, but it turns out a friend is selling a 03 CLK Kompressor Avantgarde convertible, and buying from a friend seems to be somewhat of a good idea. The car has 62K on the clock, was only used as a weekend car in recent times. Thoughts on this model? Are they very expensive to maintain? To be honest, the 2.3l engine is more than I need (would be more than happy with 1.8l-2l) and I wasn't actually looking for a convertible - should I let either issue put me off?

Thanks

Anan1

ionapaul wrote: »

Hi all,

Have another thread up about my interest in buying a 04/05 3-series BMW, but it turns out a friend is selling a 03 CLK Kompressor Avantgarde convertible, and buying from a friend seems to be somewhat of a good idea. The car has 62K on the clock, was only used as a weekend car in recent times. Thoughts on this model? Are they very expensive to maintain? To be honest, the 2.3l engine is more than I need (would be more than happy with 1.8l-2l) and I wasn't actually looking for a convertible - should I let either issue put me off?

Thanks

The 2.3 and 2.0 are quite doggy IMO - they're rough, granular engines. The later 1.8 is better, although it's OK rather than nice. If you don't want a convertible then don't buy one - they're heavier than a fixed roof, and there's lots more to go wrong. Finally, unless you and your friend both really know your stuff you'd be very well advised not to do business.

ionapaul

Some good points to consider - I'm not that opposed to the bigger engine or the convertible either, so still in two minds! The only reason either would put me off is increased annual costs. Have heard Mercs are fairly reliable though.

I'd plan to get a mechanic to look over the car even if I decided to probably go for it, my friend wouldn't mind I'm sure, it is only prudent.

ShadowHearth

buyng from a friend is a bad idea. because if something go wrong ( even if your friend did not knew about it ) there is a big chance of you two at each others throats over that. seen that before.

if you do want bmw, then go and buy bmw. i bet my lunch, that if you will buy that merc, after few months you will be looking at bmw and cursing poor merc.

DAZP93

ionapaul wrote: »

Hi all,

Have another thread up about my interest in buying a 04/05 3-series BMW, but it turns out a friend is selling a 03 CLK Kompressor Avantgarde convertible, and buying from a friend seems to be somewhat of a good idea. The car has 62K on the clock, was only used as a weekend car in recent times. Thoughts on this model? Are they very expensive to maintain? To be honest, the 2.3l engine is more than I need (would be more than happy with 1.8l-2l) and I wasn't actually looking for a convertible - should I let either issue put me off?

Thanks

Take a BMW of the same vintage for a spin and compare the 2..IMO there is no comparison between Mercs and Beemers, for me BMW's win all the time. Mercs feel heavy and steer like ships..almost like the steering wheel will never stop turning (A little over exaggeration). I also think that the 2.2 straight 6 that BMW produce is alot better than the 1.8,2.0,2.3 kompressor..that Merc do, they seem loud and lumpy.

Saying this does make it sound like I hate Mercs..dont get me wrong they are still a pretty good choice, just not for me.

Mar4ix

bad experience buying cars from friends, always sh1te happens .... it is ok buy banger for 200 quid, but merc thats serious money, and if something goes wrong... typically auto gearbox, compressor.... youll be arguing with friend, and that will be end of friendship.
I had ruined relations with one relative over fecken car.