Hi
I have currently two lancers in the house. One is Dewan import and bought zero meter and second is JDM and bought used. both are in excellent condition with zero problems.
Now I am craving for a Mercedes / BMW.
I have looked for some models and narrowed some choices
1. Mercedes C180 mid to late 1990s model.. ..available in around 11 lacs
2. Mercedes S class SE models 1986- 90 model......available in around 10 lacs
3. BMW 7 series...there is one of 1993 model for sale on forum in around 10 lacs
Personally I am tilted towards the Mercedes S class w126 shape. but I am put off by the fuel consumption around 6 km / litre in the city. Furthermore, the maintenance is also bit worrisome.
I plan to use this car for my daily use. Mercedes S class and BMW 7 series are bit long cars which might make it cumbersome for parking.
Mercedes parts are available with many dealers. I checked the market for some prices and was surprised to know that C180 parts (3rd party) are about the same price as lancer original parts.
Lancer parts are most of the time only available in original company packing and not from 3rd party packing. However as my cars are in excellent condition I just do routine maintenance.
I have not idea about BMW parts availability and workshops.
Leg space. C180 is worse than my lancers and W126 SE and BMW 7 are better.
I have no problems with my existing lancers, but I had a ride in one of the Mercedes E class 1998 model and I was blown away by the comfort of that car.
My main concerns are mostly maintenance, fuel consumption, parts prices and resale. I need the car for daily use and thus these issues. My budget is around 10-11 lacs. What do the owners of Mercedes and BMW suggest?