What in maintaining a Mercedes involve?

Your example unfortunately picks the 1 year that a C230 was not available. Are you referring to a 97-00 C230 (a W202 chassis, naturally aspirated up to '98, supercharged from '99). Or are you referring to the '02 and newer (W203 chassis) which was first available only as a 2-door hatchback (with 2.3L I4 for '02 only and with a 1.8L I4 from '03-'05, both supercharged) and later as a sedan?

It will make a difference which year you're interested in because each chassis and engine does have its own strengths and weaknesses.

However, the problem with trying to judge maintenance on any used vehicle really depends on how each individual vehicle was driven and maintained by its previous owner(s). You may luck out and only need basic maintenance as well as the replacement of usual wear n' tear items such as brakes and tires. Or you may end up paying a lot of money fixing problems the previous person neglected or used band-aid solutions.

Generally speaking, German vehicles are more luxurious and therefore have more options and features compared to Japanese vehicles (vehicles such as Lexus, Acura and Infiniti excluded). With more options and advanced electronics available, the chances of something going wrong, breaking/malfunctioning are greater. If you're worried about larger repair bills, a Honda or Toyota may be the best vehicle for you. However, and this goes for ANY used vehicle, have the used car you're interested in inspected by a trusted shop or dealer prior to finalizing the deal. Spending a few dollars now on a pre-purchase inspection can save you hundreds, even thousands of bucks later on in unanticipated repairs.

well unless u or your parents have the money to maintain it then yea go for it, but the mercedes of 99-05 all have some type of electrical problems. they might give u false info, stuff like tht, so those models in those years don't go for. japanese for a first car. if you like luxury look for a lexus gs430 or is300.

All Mercedes cars are expensive to maintain. Buy it if you can afford $2,000 a year for maintenance.

A Japanese car (Honds, Toyota or Subaru) will be much less expensive.

I've got an old 78 450 sl...and I only drive it about five times a year. I still spend a fortune on it. Always needs something...