Buying a Mercedes-Benz car or SUV when new is usually the way to go. Driving a Mercedes-Benz is a unique experience you wouldn’t want to be marred by used luxury car issues like high maintenance costs, malfunctioning or outdated infotainment systems, or hidden, costly mechanical problems arising from the actions of the previous owner. However, specific Mercedes-Benz models are just as worthwhile to buy pre-owned or used as when new, if not more. Here are 13 examples.
2011-2016 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class
Buying a used Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class is an affordable way to get your hands on a super-slick, compact luxury roadster with looks that don’t age. The 2015 models started at about $47,645 when new, but you can get a low-mileage, well-maintained example today for just $16,081. It is available with a range of potent yet reliable inline-four/V6/V8 diesel or petrol engines, and its annual maintenance costs come to about $808, which is reasonable for a luxury car of its caliber.
Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16 (W201)
The Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16 (W201) is not your average, sedate 190E C Class compact luxury saloon. It is a unique, road-going model designed to homologize its counterpart that Mercedes-Benz wanted to race in the German Touring Car Championship. It has a detuned Cosworth racing engine making 320hp, a bespoke five-link rear suspension with self-leveling shock absorbers, and more. Its current median price is $24,175.49, but because it is a highly sought-after sports car, its price will keep increasing, so you can resell it at a profit.
1992-1994 Mercedes-Benz 500E (W124)
The Mercedes-Benz 500E (W124) is another sleeper that will increase in value. This high-performance E-Class sedan was built in collaboration with Porsche. It was custom-fitted to fit the mighty 5.0L V8 that powered the Mercedes-Benz (R129) SL roadster, and it features fattened fenders, a bespoke performance drivetrain, and suspension. It is currently valued at between $40,000 and $60,000, and its price will continue to increase. So buy it now and sell it later for much more.
2013-2014 Mercedes-Benz G-Class (G-Wagon)
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class remains an iconic luxury that always turns heads. When new, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz G-Class started at $113,000 and shot up to $135,000 for the G63 AMG. Today, the 2013 G63 AMG can be had for between $44,910 and $69,998, and its lower trims are even cheaper, so you will save a lot with these models. The 2013-2014 Mercedes-Benz G-Class is also worth buying because Mercedes-Benz has sorted out the problems that plagued prior models, so these models offer solid build quality and reliability.
Mercedes-Benz SL (R107)
The Mercedes-Benz SL (R107) grand touring sports car is catching the attention of classic car enthusiasts. Today, the average price of the 500SL (R107) with the 5.0L V8 engine is $30,495, which is a steal for such a car. The SL R107 was produced for a record 18 years and is loved for its solid build quality and powerful yet reliable engines. Also, its price is bound to continue rising, so you are sure to sell it at a profit.
2017-2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT
The Mercedes-Benz AMG GT 2-door sports car is also worthwhile; you can get it for $64,999 to $99,000. In 2017, the AMG GT got a facelift, and Mercedes-Benz also managed to address any complaints owners made concerning the previous model years. Revisions were made to its robust M178 engine, guaranteeing its reliability and performance. Given the growing popularity of the 1st –generation Mercedes-Benz AMG GT, it is bound to hold its value quite well.
2003-2010 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
The Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is a solid investment for car collectors. It was built in collaboration with McLaren Automotive, featuring an engine co-developed by both brands’ Formula One teams. Therefore, this is no ordinary sports car. Only 2,157 units were made, so its demand is bound to keep rising. Today, you can get it for $283,996 to $595,750.
1982-1985 Mercedes-Benz 300D (W123) Turbo Diesel
The Mercedes-Benz 300D (W123) Turbo Diesel is a classic car aging gracefully and increasing in value. Its 3-litre, five-cylinder diesel engine makes 119 hp but is built to last. Well-maintained examples are becoming rarer by the day, meaning a clean model could set you back $36,750.
2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Reliability is essential where used luxury cars are concerned because it directly affects a car’s maintenance costs. Mercedes-Benz has done exceedingly well in this respect with some models, including the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class. This car is on U.S. News & World Report’s “Most Reliable Used Cars Under $20,000.” It also has an excellent IIHS safety rating and can be purchased for $5,980 to $24,490.
2020-2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
The Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class compact crossover SUV was introduced in 2015 for the 2016 model year, and its first generation was produced from 2016 to 2021. In 2020, it got a significant facelift with a new 12.3-inch MBUX digital cockpit, steering wheel, and an improved 4-cylinder engine. Mercedes-Benz also addressed complaints that GLC owners made about the prior models. Therefore, these model years are arguably the first-generation GLC’s most reliable and tech-filled versions.
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE
The fourth generation of the Mercedes-Benz GLE started with its 2020 model year. Being a fully redesigned vehicle, some aspects needed correcting, and Mercedes-Benz did so with the 2021 model. By opting for this model, you will get the latest SUV offerings without paying the current model’s hefty price.
2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
The Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class preceded the Mercedes-Benz GLC as the compact crossover SUV. It was discontinued in 2015, two years after a significant update in 2013, during which time Mercedes-Benz sorted out problem areas noted in the prior model years. Now, the 2013-2015 model years are the best versions. This is confirmed by the fact that J.D. Power has given the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class an impressive quality and reliability rating of 85/100.
Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG
Being the Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing’s spiritual successor, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG captivates onlookers with its gullwing-style doors and iconic, sporty design. It is also among the last Mercedes-Benz sports cars with a naturally aspirated V8 engine. This timeless classic is going up in value, so when you buy it used, you are bound to make a killing when you resell it a few years later.
Do Your Due Diligence
Be sure to review a vehicle’s service history and maintenance records before you buy a pre-owned Mercedes-Benz car or SUV. If the service records show that the vehicle was not maintained regularly, don’t purchase it. Check to see if the vehicle was involved in an accident at some point. A CarFax Report can help in this respect because it will reveal all the facts about a car’s history, accident reports, and title status. Lastly, a car’s mileage should be checked, and a mechanic should inspect the vehicle to identify any mechanical problems. Doing so will protect you from buying a lemon that will drain your finances.
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Mark Muhoro is a car enthusiast and writer who loves everything about automobiles. With over 11 years of experience in the automotive industry, Mark has become an expert in how cars work and what makes them special. He writes clear and interesting articles about cars for magazines and websites, making valuable contributions to renowned platforms like Vroom Magazine, Internet Brands, and Contentmotive.
