1984 Mercedes 190D.. Parts? Cost to own? Anyone have experience with?

[DesertBen44]

So even though the last thing I need is more vehicles, came accross a clean 1984 190D, 5 speed manual, interior good exterior good, runs, needs some window glass.

Wondering if anyone has owned one; how hard are parts to find? Cost of ownership vs common sedan? I am looking on rockauto and the parts seem really affordable.

Just wondering if anyone has any input or experiences to share. Thanks in advance!

 

[towcat]

don't do it. wait for a '87 and up 2.5 car. the 2.2 is a weak cousin to the 2.5

 

[smokinpipes]

Personally I haven't dealt with the smaller displacement engines, but I have an '83 300SD turbo, and I love it. Some of the more hard things, that are MB specific can be a bit pricey, (i.e. cruise control amplifier.. $200 remaned) ... that sort of stuff; but brakes, and other stuff isn't bad at all as you said.
If I had to weigh it in, I would actually say cost of ownership is cheaper than a regular sedan. But one thing I haven't had to experience yet, because I try to be proactive with my car, is stay on top of your maintenance. It is like these cars KNOW when you are 2 miles overdue for an oil change, or an oil filter, or you have a micrometer of play in some bushing. Do all fluids at recommended intervals, and you will absolutely love this car. And the fuel mileage is pretty good too!
A couple places to check out http://benzworld.org ... and peachparts.com both great assets for info with these cars. (And peach is very competitive with prices.. even cheaper than ebay)

 

[DesertBen44]

Right on thanks for responses guys.

Just saw the ad and got really intrigued, figured it might be a cool thing to have just to get around town/to work in to save miles on the truck now that the gf is driving my maxima.

I dont think I would care about the fact that its slow, but It probably would irritate me after a while, who knows. Will have to keep an eye out for the newer ones with the 2.5, unless this guy lowers the price some more. Doubt it though; only asking a grand.

 

[royzell]

Any body parts from the 230E are the same. There are lots of those around for parts. The one you're looking at is a 5 speed. I've had lots of old Benz's and if I had to pick a common weak point it is the automatic transmission. Yes the 2.5 will have more power, but for a grand and great fuel mileage, so what. If you find a 2.5 you like later sell this one.

 

[royzell]

my bad, I meant to say body parts from the 190E are the same, plentiful, and cheap.