1987 Mercedes-Benz 190 190E 2.3 review from North America

I purchased this car in its 13th year in an auto auction. The Carfax report indicated that the odometer had not been working for several years. Need I say more. However, read till the end of the report if you want to know why I still drive it.

There were three major issues with the car. The drive-train was in poor shape. Right after I bought the car a U-joint in the drive shaft had to be replaced. The differential is also a little worn, but functional.

The second issue was a leak in the heater valve. This caused the engine to overheat and blow the head gasket. I have to take part of the blame for this as I was driving it for a mile or so to get to a gas station with the temperature guage stuck at its highest point. I got a replacement engine from a junk yard.

The third issue was the automatic transmission. A few months after it got its new engine it needed a new transmission.

However, after all the problems I still have the car, for several reasons. The first is passive safety. The car handles much better & brakes much faster than many new cars that I rented while traveling. It does this without sacrificing comfort. The second reason is the near-perfect drive position. It is as Mercedes knew exactly where I wanted everything. Ergonomics is first class. The Mercedes 190E also has what they call a "greenhouse" passenger cabin. It provides excellent all-round visibility...besides, it's a Mercedes.

So I have had the car relatively trouble free for the past three years. It's a pleasure to drive, and I love looking at the three-pointed star hood ornament.

This car is unreliable, like most 17 year old cars.

It is however, fun to drive, due to its handling, braking, and excellent all-round visibility.

It's a bit small for a family car, but ideal sized for commuting or carpooling.