About to buy 190D 2.5 (1993)... advice appreciated!

[Adrianh1]

Hi, would be VERY grateful for any advice/tips as am about to buy a 190D 2.5 (manual), L reg, 1993. It's had one owner from new with full MB service history (serviced every 6,000 miles from same MB garage) but it's racked up 180,000 miles. The owner has agreed to put it through its imminent 'big' 36,000 service before I take over as new owner, but still a bit nervous about handing over my £1700 quid for the car as 180,000 miles is still a lot of miles...

Also, it's a leap of faith as I spotted car via the 'net and won't see the car until we meet halfway between north and south next week (12 Jan 06'). This 190 is still on its original clutch so I thought that might be a good omen (careful use).

Any thoughts on things to look far/check before parting with my cash much appreciated.

Thanks!

Adrian

 

[Bolide]

190 2.5 D

Adrian


If it's got verifiable MB history and one owner from new I'd buy it without a care in the world

The manual box is a sloppy old thing to use and the car needs to be revved mercilessly to get it to move but it has one of Mercedes great engines in one of their best saloons

You'll inevitably find things to fix on it but assuming the bodywork & interior are OK I'd assume the running gear is too. With a one owner car the cosmetics should be a very reliable guide to the care it's had

There are lots of things you should look at (search this forum and you'll find lots) but I'd say that the credibility of the seller will give you the best clue as to how good the car is


Nick Froome
www.w124.co.uk

 

[Adrianh1]

Nick: many thanks. I know the manual gearbox route is sloppy and most people recommend the auto option, but I needed the Xmas break to find a reasonable Merc - don't have any more time to look now back to work - and I may squeeze a bit more juice per gallon out of a manual than an auto. Prefer to have the extra control of a manual, too.

I think the car should be sound; the owner is retired, full MB service history... Will go for it. Thanks for your encouraging words.

Adrian