1992 Mercedes-Benz 190 E review from North America

At the time of purchase used, it was clear that the car had not been properly serviced and that the repair / used-car dealer was not forthcoming about the items needing work, to wit:

Leaking differential gasket

Leaking oil gasket

six (6!) running lights out

three dash lights out

I had found other problems:

defective power window regulator

loose, non-functional air vents

defective driver's door lock

As the car was well priced ($7K,) I was happy to pay for the repairs I found (and would have paid for the others). The worthless dealer failed to fix the lock, he put in a defective Toyota window regulator that failed within a week, and took $500 for "servicing" which amounted to an oil change. I guess he figured I would not come back since I was from out of state. The Better Business Bureau in Conway SC has been notified.

Home in Virginia, the M-B servicing has (in contrast to SC) been a dream. They found all the problems, were solicitous and polite, and treated me like a king. I did not find the prices all that high, all things considered. To put the car in shape cost me another $1.5K. I also replaced the stereo-radio and speakers (blown by previous owner) on top of that -- and didn't regret the cost for a minute.

Over the two years owned, I have only had the most minor of problems:

Slow rear door automatic lock

broken hinge on hood raising arm

replaced dirty floor mats (I park on a dirt driveway)

Since the major problems with the car were all there when I got it, and were due to lack of care by the dealer and previous owner, I have nothing but good things to say about the car:

Tight responsive handling

V. quiet ride, I can even listen to music with the roof and windows open!

Wonderful comfort for such a small vehicle -- I love taking it for 7 hour trips, even!

Clear, elegant dash layout

Air conditioning that would freeze a polar bear (great in Va and SC).

I admit the 2.3 is not overpowered; acceleration is stately rather than peppy, but that does not bother me. The car seems to come into its own at about 70 mph -- accelerates better then that at lower speeds.

Beatifull classic lines, that get looks and comments even thougth the car is pushing 10 year of age.

If you buy a 190E -- and they can be gotten for a bargain price -- spend the money to get good M-B service. The car deserves it. I expect to get another 120K miles out of it, no questions asked.

Avoid fly-by-night dealers in SC.