Mercedes C 220 CDI

Our 2nd MB, we bought this one last year after an extensive search for the right one. C220cdi stationwagons are difficult to find and a bit pricey but worth the effort.
Our 1999 Classic is in dark blue, which glows denim blue in the sun and is a very forgiving colour. We have an optional beige interior with beige hide upholstery and 5 speed auto gearbox, which is a perfect match for the torquey diesel engine.
Overall, we are delighted with the car, which is the most comfortable we have ever owned ( this is my 22nd car!) and the great performance and economy (around 40mpg) are an unexpected bonus. Other features which we appreciate include the air-con and cruise control.
Downsides? Unfortunately yes.
1) I have not come across a decent MB dealer yet and have ended up in dispute with 2. Why MB head office doesn't crack down on them I don't understand, they must lose MB many customers. The saving grace is that there are a growing number of very good independent MB service specialists who will do the job for half the price and treat you like a human being.
2) Rust around the top edge of the doors and the bottom edge of the bootlid/estate tailgate is a well known problem and has been acknowledged by MB as a manufacturing defect. The saving grace here is that, if you have a full service history you can take it to a dealer and claim a repair under the bodywork warranty.
Final tip....Join the MB Owners Association, (find it online) it's free and has all the information you will ever need!