i just lowered my 99 c280 about 3 weeks ago with the same intentions as you. i used eibach springs and bilstein sport shocks. i got a real good deal on them used off craigslist ($250 for everything) which is really the only reason why i went with eibach. but i must say the ride is as comfy as before. it doesn't really feel much stiffer over bumps. took me a crazy back breaking 12 hours to do the fronts and only 4 for the rear. this was my first time working on suspension and i did all by myself. if i had a helpful hand i can imagine it would have been done in about half the time. and i also used regular spring compressors not the Mercedes. yes i know they say its dangerous but i got the job done