Mercedes remains a flagship in the European car market and has remained one of the most desired brands around the world over the years. What makes this brand of vehicle so sought after? Is it the innovative technology? The outstanding reputation? Every aspect of this brand has been intentionally orchestrated to make everyone want one. However, its exclusive status means that while everyone may desire to own a Mercedes, it might not suit everyone. Therefore, some considerations need to be taken into perspective to ensure that if you do buy a Merc, it will be the best fit for you and your lifestyle.
Should you go new or used?
Buying an elite car such as a Mercedes comes at a significant price, which means not everyone can afford to buy one brand new. Used Mercedes offers a premium ride at a lower cost. You need to decide if you can afford to buy a new Merc or if it’s a better option to go pre-owned.
What are the pros and cons of buying a new Mercedes?
Of course, there’s nothing quite like buying a new car and knowing you’re the only person who has ever owned it. But here are the main pros and cons to consider to make sure it’s worth buying one brand new.
Pros of buying a new Mercedes
- You get to use it in peak condition
- The interior and exterior are damage-free
- The engine is from a trusted and authorised dealership
Cons of buying a new Mercedes
- It is very expensive, and you will buy it for its highest price
- The car’s value depreciates quickly as soon as it’s driven off the floor
What are the pros and cons of buying a used Mercedes?
Many Mercedes owners have adopted the mentality of “If it’s not new it’s not worth it.” But if you can’t afford to buy a new model, a pre-loved Mercedes still offers exceptional quality. Here are the pros and cons you need to consider when buying a pre-owned Mercedes:
Pros of buying a used Mercedes
- The price will be much lower than if it were bought for brand new
- Generally, pre-owned Mercedes have low mileage
- Mercedes owners typically take great care of their cars, so generally, used Mercs will be in excellent condition
Cons of buying a used Mercedes
- There’s a good chance there are some underlying quality issues with the car
- Repair and maintenance for used Mercedes can be expensive once the warranty is over
- Verifying the authenticity of sellers can be challenging
What can you afford?
Mercedes Benz has a remarkable reputation for manufacturing a range of premium-quality cars, regardless of whether you go for an entry-level model or the Maybach. However, even the most affordable class, like the A-class, comes in at a high price on the market. So, when you decide to buy a Mercedes, you must be prepared to pay for it. So, consider how you will finance it and make a sound financial decision that you won’t regret in the future.
You can either make a cash purchase and not have to worry about monthly instalments and interest. Or if you do not have all the funds available, you can pay a deposit, take out a recurring loan and pay-off the car for a designated period. While the latter may seem more affordable, some interest payments will be associated with the loan.
What model (class) should you buy?
Another important factor to consider is which Mercedes Benz model you should purchase. To make an informed decision, you need to look at which model will best suit your lifestyle, budget and needs. Here are some models and who they would be best suited for:
- A and B class – these two models are Mercedes entry-level cars and are, therefore, the most affordable. It’s a brilliant option for younger drivers who need something compact and easy to manoeuvre
- C-class – this is also one of Mercedes more affordable models, and it’s best suited to those who are looking for something stylish and relatively affordable but require more space than the A or B-class
- E-class – the E-class is a level up from the C-class and offers drivers a more spacious and luxurious drive, and is decked out with a range of innovative features like satellite navigation and heated seats
- GLE and GLS – for families who don’t want to compromise luxury for space, then the GLE and GLS are the perfect SUV for you. The GLE comes in at a surprisingly affordable price on the market, but if you’re wanting the more luxurious option, then the GLS is the one for you
- SL Roadster – for anyone who is itching to rev up in a sports car and pay the price for it, the SL Roadster offers a sculpted lower body, 19-inch wheels and a luxurious feel
Can you handle the maintenance?
To keep a Mercedes in prime condition, it needs to be well-maintained and serviced regularly. For those who buy brand new, the car will come with a service plan and warranty to ensure that it’s kept in mint condition — so stick to the service bookings. However, if you are buying a used Mercedes or if the warranty is up, the cost to service a Mercedes can be quite steep. This is generally why owners will try trade-in before the warranty and service plan expires. So, if you’re going to buy a Mercedes and intend to keep it for a long time, you need to consider whether or not you can afford the maintenance.
Final Thoughts
For those who have decided that a Mercedes is a car for them, take your time with your decision, ensure you’ve considered all the expenses, and pick the model that will best suit your lifestyle.
