99-01 with 50k-60k miles? I really want this car but my friends are saying that its not a good move for a first time car owner...I know how to drive and I've been driving for a few years now but this will be MY first car. I've seen the car on ebaymotors and at various dealerships in NYC. The cost is anywhere from $9K-$15K...I was planning on putting a down payment of $6500 and financing the rest. My mother thinks I should BUY a car for $8000 being that it will be my first car. My friends who know a lot about cars say that I should get the new Altima or Maxima(yuck)...long story short-would this be a good first time car? Also, how much can I expect to spend on servicing this car annually? I was told $5K annually can be expected...any info would be great. Thanks.

get it - you obviously want it.

your friends are jealous and want you to get trashy cars like they were forced to get. you're the one that is going to drive it.

that is garbage about the 5000 - more like 500-1000

skip ebay, usually only lemons are at auctions. buy it from a dealer. preferably a MB dealer, for complete peace of mind.

If u can afford it - get it.

My father has a Mercedes Benz S Class from 1992 with 275,000 miles on it, still runs great, it's mine now. His new car is a 2006 CLK500. Mercedes Benz are some of the most durable, luxuy, productive cars made. If you can get one cheap and that fits you, go for it. They're absolutely wonderful.

Btw, don't worry about your friends. They're jealous that you might have a Mercedes and they wont. Besides, I LEARNED how to drive in one. They're great cars.

Hope this helps in your decision!