Mercedes-Benz cars sold new in Japan are right-hand drive, usually dealer-maintained, and lose value quickly there, so a Japanese-market Mercedes is often much cheaper than the same car elsewhere. The three models most often found at export prices are the A-Class, C-Class and E-Class.
Models You Will Find
| Model | Generation | What it is | Common engine |
|---|---|---|---|
| A-Class | W176, 2012–2018 | Compact hatchback | A180: 1.6 turbo petrol |
| C-Class | W204, 2007–2014 | Mid-size sedan and wagon | C200 Kompressor (supercharged 1.8, early cars), later 1.8 turbo |
| E-Class | W212, 2009–2016 | Executive sedan and wagon | E250: 2.0 turbo petrol (later cars) |
Trims such as AMG Style, Avantgarde and AMG Line change the look (bumpers, wheels, interior), not the engine. A real AMG car is named A45, C63 and so on.
What to Check
- A-Class gearbox: the A180 uses a dual-clutch automatic. Ask about jerky low-speed shifts.
- C200 Kompressor engine: early engines of this family are known for timing-chain and camshaft adjuster wear. Ask about rattle on cold start.
- Electronics: ask about dashboard warnings, electric seats, windows and the parking sensors.
- Service history: Japanese dealer records are common; ask for them.
- Parts and servicing: check that a Mercedes specialist and parts are available where you live.
- Radio and navigation: Japanese FM radio uses a different band (76–90 MHz), and the built-in navigation is set up for Japan. Budget for a band expander or a new head unit, or ask us to arrange one before shipping.
- Auction sheet: read how to read a Japanese auction sheet.
Age Limits: Which Countries Can Take One
Some countries cap the age of an imported car: Jamaica allows up to 5 years, Trinidad & Tobago 4 years, and Kenya and Guyana 8 years. The Bahamas, Barbados, Suriname, the Eastern Caribbean islands such as Saint Lucia and Antigua, Uganda and Tanzania have no strict age limit on our checker. Rules change, so always confirm with your clearing agent before you pay.
Most Mercedes at export prices are older than 8 years, so they suit the no-limit markets such as the Bahamas, Barbados, Suriname, Uganda and Tanzania.
The table at the bottom of this page applies each country's rule to our live stock and shows the cheapest delivered price. For the full list see import age limits by country, and for duty and port fees see how to calculate the total cost.
More on European cars from Japan: buying a BMW, Audi, Mercedes or Volvo from Japan.