I bought my A140 long wheel base in December 03 from mercedes benz direct with 20k on the clock (just under 2 years old). Rather more than i had wanted mileage wise, but only 1 previous owner and immaculate with a pretty good price (9k). Service from MB direct was great, but I had to struggle to get extras like mats and extra tax etc.
In six months I have driven approx 8k miles both on motorways and country tracks ( i use it for work) , and apart from wishing I had traded up to an A160 for the motorwaydriving I am very happy - I imagine having the A140 is keeping the petrol costs down. On mixed driving (town and country) I average about 450 miles for a full tank (£38) - which compares favourably with my old car a Ford Ka.
We all love the roomy interior and the limo like leg space in the back, and I love the driving position which is higher and gives more visibility than a hatchback/saloon. Its due for a service soon and Im told this will cost approx £150 (still under warranty for any major repairs) - I had expected it to be more on a Merc!
My only niggle (really) is the air con - its not standard on the Classic and was fitted as an option by the last owner- its a bit on the slow side to get going and doesn't blast out the icy air on a hot day.
I wanted more room for the 2 kids, safety and reliability and i can honestly say I have all that and some lovely little extras as well. When they bring out the new model I could well trade up.
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Mercedes A-Class - Hatchback - Front (FWD) - 6 Speed - (Man) / Autotronic - (Auto) - 1992 cc - Max Speed: 116 mph - 109 bhp - Diesel - Available Trims: Elegance SE, Classic SE, Classic, Avantgarde SE, Long
Mercedes A-Class - Hatchback - Front (FWD) - 5 Speed - (Man) / Autotronic - (Auto) - 1498 cc - Max Speed: 109 mph - 95 bhp - Petrol - Available Trims: Avantgarde SE, Classic, Classic SE, Elegance SE
Advantages: Very high build quality, silent running, prestige, badge, lush, solid, fast, sumptuous. Disadvantages: Difficult to park, dealer will empty your bank balence, large car - small....... !
May 20th, 2004
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