Xanadu350

Does anyone here have a Mercedes-Benz C-Class C350 w/ 268hp? Or know of anyone that has this car?

Just wondering how reliability is with this model and more important how ride quality is compared to Lexus. I guess this car is in the same class as the new 06 IS 350.

Is the handling of the C350 like the handling of a E90 or more like the handling of the new IS? Does anyone know?

Would love to hear from fellow ClubLexus owners if they own this car. I've been to the MB forums to look but not much talk about this model C350.

Incendiary

My sister has a C240 4matic. I'd imagine the C350 is almost exactly like the IS350 in terms of ride quality, handling, etc. Why not just take both out for test drives back-to-back?

Xanadu350

I definately plan to but wanted to hear from someone that has owned it and what they think of this model. Is this a new engine the C350? The body style hasn't changed much right?

Incendiary

Yes and no, respectively.

jracerlmn

the handling is ok. It's no beemer, but it's great for high way driving.

The 350 engine does have some kick behind it and it's pretty quick. But like i said...handling is ok...no way a BMW...

GRAND_LS 4

iTrader: (2)

The interior of the C is garbage. IS350 all the way.

IronCobra

agreed..... Unless you own a S, E, CLK, CL, or G series you don't get the Mercedes Service that you would think.

mjr24

I have driven the C240 a few times while my CL was at the dealer for work (which tells you something about Mercedes service right there, their service is subpar unless you have a Maybach). I have not see the IS inside or driven it, so I cannot compare.
I could probably find a lot better cars for 30k than the C-Class. It wasn't too fast, the interior wasn't that great (but decent). The body style has not changed in since 2001 and probably won't for another 2 years or so at least. Handling is good in the car....it rides nice....etc.

GFerg

My moms best friend just got one a few months back(C350 Sport). C350 is a new model(upgraded engine for this year). Now I never got the chance to sit in it or drive it yet, but compared to her 03 C320 she traded it in for, its so much better inside and out. They made a few modifications to the exterior giving it a more updated look, and they greatly improved the interior. The quality of pre-2004 model interiors werent that great, but they added some nice touches last year.

The C350 I would assume would be mighty quick. 268hp is pretty darn good. Plus you can get a 6-speed manual in the C350 Sport model, which comes with a stiffer suspension(with a very sexy lowered look), nice wheels, and a few other things. With that said I am sure the handling would be a little better(but like I said, I didnt have the opportunity to ride in or drive her car yet).

Well, the engine might be tough, but MB is known for electrical problems. So be careful when you buy. Thankfully she has never had a problem with the old C320, so hopefully she wont with the new one.

Hers came out to around 43-44K. Everything except Navi and I believe she said no upgraded stereo as well, to keep the cost down.

EDIT: Oh and she doesnt have a wood interior. The Sport models have an aluminum dash. It looks real good though. Im not sure if wood is an option on that model.