1.Correct.

2.Yes.

3.First part of your question-if they both have been takin cared for then they both are very reliable cars. Second part of the question-YES.

4.Yes.

Get the C36 AMG if you want Great Performace and a Limited Production Rare vehicle,, or get the C280 if you want a Great Mercedes-Benz.
I have both, and they are both amazing cars in there own respected ways.

Hope that helps.

Good Luck in your purchase!

 

1. It probably is just me.. but I always have a hard time finding a comfortable position. It'll be fine after a few consecutive drives, but whenever I first get into it after driving other cars, it's a bit awkward. Aside from the seats, yes, it has virtually all w202 options. So go for it. My 96 version even has a weather band AND the old motorola cell phone built in.

2. The only thing hand built is the engine. All other parts are off the shelf.

3. Some AMG parts listed for C36 can be expensive, but look around and you will find the same parts listed under other mass produced cars a bit cheaper.

4. How much depreciation are you expecting from a $5~7k car?

gl with ur purchase, but despite all what i said above, still hope u get the AMG !

 

No doubt, go with the C36. It is a much nicer and better looking car then the C280. You will be much happier with it.

 

I drive a 96 c280 sport and I love it. I'm looking to get the c36 AMG bumpers if I can find some.

Since you said you don't really care about the performance upgrade from a 280 to the c36, I say you look at both cars' history and see what's been replaced on each car and what problems they've had. Make the decision based on what will last you longer. As BenzMaster19 said, they are both great vehicles. Good luck, keep us posted and posts some pictures when you make your decision!

 

Did you buy the C36? How about some photos? Thx:thumbsup:

 

C280 feels bland, the C36 is a Transformed car over the standard W202. No comparison IMHO.

97 if my pref'd year, the .6 is a great transmission and having that 5th cog is Most enjoyable!

Jonathan

 

Haven't driven the C280 but I would imagine a similar optioned one would feel the same on the interior - I've even seen a few C280 Sports that look identical to the C36. However, even if the engine is not of much interest to you (and I wonder if you'll still feel this way if you start driving one!) you might appreciate the much reduced body roll due to the (factory) lowered and stiffened suspension. The body kit also makes a nice improvement to the exterior IMO. Certain parts will be more expensive however (eg. brake pads & discs), so be prepared for that.

If you're not that bothered, then it all depends on what you can find in good condition. A well maintained C280 would probably be the better buy than a clapped out C36 (if those are the choices).

 

If you are not interested in the increased performance, then for God's sake, buy a C280 and please leave the C36 for someone who does care!

 

I concur!

 

Sounds pretty good

I will definitely buy either a C36 or C43 in the near future

I have owned six BMWs, four E30 3 series and two E28/E34 5 series and was set on buying an M3/M5 later on

but since owning a 93 190e 2.6 and now this 96 C280
I've changed my preference to AMG C Class :thumbsup:

IMO the over all design (interior & exterior) is a couple notches up the scale in quality over the BMW

The only thing BMW may have over the Merc is more models offering an optional manual transmission
and availability of low cost performance chips

 

Yea I agree, the C36 would have been crazyyy with a manual, but since it doesnt have it I must admit this Auto they have installed in it really does an amazing job too.

 

I don't like C-class as model line. But AMG managed to make a car out of C-class. So... go and get that AMG!

 

Already noted thanks:

the whole swap idea seems like a PITA
so a C36/C43 purchase would be a simple remedy

I've had bigger sedans and don't carry passengers to often and insurance rates are better vs coupes
though not sure if it will make an impact on an AMG

so I'm glad there are C-Class AMG sedan models to choose from

my sister has a E320 4Matic I like, but just a tad too big
enjoy the 722.6 transmission w/manual mode in it though :thumbsup:

 

Guys, can you tell me the design difference in front bumper of C36 vs. C280? I need to locate a replacement bumper for my C36 and some of the parts guys interchange C36 and C280. My car is a 1997.

 

I believe the only real changes were the fog lights or cooling ducts for the brakes like I have on my BMW 740iL

I'm sure a quick search for images of the two models will furnish good results

I know the 96 C280 Sport I had was fitted with a 97 rear bumper

what the stock 96 front bumper looks like
I believe in 97 they started the bumper upgrade

more photos
http://picasaweb.google.com/Bimmerman4Ever/My96MercedesC280Sport?feat=directlink

What a 97 (bumper upgrade looks like)

96 (or 97 ?) AMG

 

The lower lip shape is different. I thought maybe it would be just the inserts that may be different like the fog lamp shape and vents for the brakes (or maybe motor mounts, forgot). Thanks for the pics...