Merc c220 - Opinions? (2008 / 09)

JohnCleary

Right while I love my little 320d, i've had it for too long and time for a change.

Time and time again I come back to the Merc c220.

I have a budget of 15,000 euro (inc VRT). I'll probably go estate, and would like auto for a change.

I wanted Xenon's, but they seem rare in this year? They have projector headlights so it's something I can get over.

Other than that, spec requiriment is only leather, bluetooth handsfree and air-con... after that everything else is a bonus really.

Considering i'll be buying in the UK, what spec should I be looking out for?

I'm not too bothered whether it's a sport or not... to be honest the only cosmetic difference I can see is the sports grill (which can be bought). Anyone know what exactly the difference is?

Now, the main question here is, I was advised to be careful if going for a 2008 re. car tax laws. Will I need to ask for the co2/g (or whatever it is) and check with ROS to check if it's eligible for cheap tax? Or does it depend on the month in 2008 it was manufactured?


The only other car that tickled my fancy was the 520d but with the possibility of the timing chain going pop, not sure if I want to risk it

bazz26

You need to get the car's Co2 rating which is listed on the V5 document (UK log book). Then go check on www.motortax.ie what tax bracket it falls into. This is what Revenue will go by. All UK imports originally registered from 2008 onwards will go on the Co2 system. I remember Mercs even the diesels didn't have very low emissions back then compared to the likes of BMW, Audi, etc. so Mercedes had to offer big discounts to shift them when the Co2 tax system came in.

JohnCleary

Thanks for the info, will keep it in mind.

I hate that I love the look of the 520d, still can't decide whether to avoid or not

bazz26

What about an Audi A6 Avant? 2009 onwards facelifted model will have the newer 2.0 TDi CR engine which is pretty reliable.

JohnCleary

bazz26 wrote: »

What about an Audi A6 Avant? 2009 onwards facelifted model will have the newer 2.0 TDi CR engine which is pretty reliable.

Have to say the A6 does nothing for me

It'd definitely be between the Merc C220 or 520d

bazz26

Wouldn't touch a 520d of that vintage.

JohnCleary

bazz26 wrote: »

Wouldn't touch a 520d of that vintage.

It's a pitty, isin't it? As they're a lovely looking car. But yes I think i'll think with my head on this one and avoid

bazz26

Does it have to be 2008? You could get a 2007 520d with the older engine and no timing chain worries. Motor tax would be €710 verses €390 for the 2008.

JohnCleary

bazz26 wrote: »

Does it have to be 2008? You could get a 2007 520d with the older engine and no timing chain worries. Motor tax would be €710 verses €390 for the 2008.

Yes, the cheaper tax is imperative as I will need to think about day-to-day expenses. Also, I don't want an older car than 2008... we're about to hit 2014 afterall :cool: May even be able to stretch to a 2009 but as the 520d's still have the issue, I might be best to give it a miss.

To be honest, with all of the above, it's the C220 that tickles my fancy.

bazz26

Fair enough, I'm not a Merc fan so I'll let someone else advise you on the ins and outs of them so.