Pros and Cons of these three cars for my first car used Mercedes-Benz, Chevrolet, Volvo?

Asked by everyothertofu Feb 05, 2014 at 12:43 AM about the 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300-Class 4 Dr 300TE Wagon

Question type: General

Hi all,
I'm looking for my first car; wanting a cheap(er) older wagon I found three cars that I
thought fit what I'm looking for. All are priced under $2,000.
This question may be too broad, but if you know anything about any of these three
cars-- pros and cons, personal experience, etc. please let me know.

The first of the three is a Volvo 240 Wagon circa 1988-1993

Second is a 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 Wagon

And the third is a 1990 Chevy Celebrity Wagon

I'm leaning towards the Chevy Celebrity, but still looking. I've heard that both Volvos
and (obviously) Mercedes-Benz vehicles can be costly to repair. Does anyone know
what kind of problems these specific cars tend to have and perhaps their cost to fix--
plus labor-- I don't know anything about repairing old cars.
I am willing to put in $2,000-$2,500 max. to repair if need be. My family knows a
cheap, reliable independent mechanic who will look at the car before I purchase it, but I
was just wondering if I could get some more opinions on the matter before I talk to him.
Any safety information is also appreciated-- it's hard to find for these older cars.
Thanks in advance, I really appreciate any information!

Also, if anyone can recommend other models that are similar to these please do! In
general, I'm looking for a car
-From 1988-2000
-Preferably station-wagon
-Climate control & heated seats
-radio and CD/ Casette player
-Seatbelts
-Automatic transmission
-More boxy shape
-5-8 seating capacity
-Under $3,500, but can be less+$$ for repairs

2 Answers

125

I agree with RickElake. I purchased my current '92 300e with 125,000 miles that had been sitting for six years exposed to all the elements for $2,000. Had to have it towed to my service professional. He drained all fluids, replaced all belts, filters, and fuel injectors (that one just because) removed and treated the fuel tank, battery. Parts, labor and 2 days later $1,400. First turn of key .... cranked right up. New tires. drove it 200 mile around town for week. Then a 800 mile road trip. Success! Since then, regular stuff like brakes and suspension. Today 20 months, 42,000 miles later and me having a very heavy foot. No issues. BTW the paint good detailing ... good as new. The Volvo my brother had one of that era. Parts a major issue. The Chevy mostpart are available on the recycle market. What ever you decide, have it checked out by someone you trust. Keep in mind. The person who checks it out may tell you that it is good when its not, so they will have a new $$$ customer in you. Good luck

2 people found this helpful.
125

Interested in knowing the outcoming. Please keep us posted.

1 people found this helpful.

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