The 1999 Benz C280 remains a sought-after model in the used luxury car market, and for good reason. Owner reviews consistently highlight its blend of performance, comfort, and Mercedes-Benz build quality. Let’s delve into what drivers are saying about this classic sedan.
Many owners praise the driving experience of the 1999 C280. One reviewer, Bill, initially not even considering a Mercedes, was “hooked” after a test drive, noting the “nice drive and handling,” quietness, and “plenty of power.” The V6 engine, a step up from the previous inline-six, is frequently lauded for its smoothness and responsiveness. Albert, a seasoned Mercedes owner, remarked that the V6 is a “huge improvement,” appreciating its smooth and powerful delivery without being overly dramatic. Even with its age, the C280 is described as having “amazing stability at top speed,” according to MKTurismo, a first-time Mercedes owner who was impressed by the car’s solid feel compared to domestic vehicles.
Reliability is a recurring theme in positive reviews. Several owners report high mileage with minimal issues, indicating the C280’s enduring build quality. MB MAN, with 90,000 miles on his C280, states it “still runs like the first day, never has broke down, just regular services.” Bill, with an even more impressive 150,000 miles, confirms low repair costs beyond “basic stuff,” even mentioning a major repair (harmonic balancer) covered under recall. Eileen Broader emphasizes the importance of service records, suggesting that a “well loved” C280 “will last you forever.” Albert highlights the M112 engine’s reputation for longevity, observing “many owners with 200k+ miles on these M112 engines without much repairs.”
Comfort and features are also frequently mentioned as strong points. Eileen Broader praises the C280’s comfort and excellent visibility, noting “NO blind spots, great instrumentation including cruise and wipers.” The BOSE sound system is another highlight, described as “amazing” by the same reviewer. MKTurismo points out the solid door slam and lack of interior rattles, further contributing to the sense of quality and comfort.
However, like any used car of this age, potential buyers should be aware of common issues. Rust, particularly around wheel wells and sunroof, is mentioned by Bill. Interior wear, LCD display/dash light failures, and wiper motor problems are also noted. Eileen Broader mentions a leaky valve and ignition system failure, advising to test the ignition switch before replacing the key. Despite these potential issues, owners generally feel the C280 offers excellent value, especially when purchased as a used car. MKTurismo considered their $5,000 purchase “a steal.” Albert described his C280 as the “Best used car deal of my life.”
In conclusion, the 1999 Benz C280 earns high marks from owners for its driving experience, reliability, and overall quality. While potential buyers should be mindful of age-related issues and prioritize well-maintained examples, the positive reviews suggest that a 1999 C280 can still be a rewarding and enjoyable used luxury car, embodying the timeless appeal of Mercedes-Benz engineering.
