Buying Advice for E220 1994 sedan

[mardira]

I am thinking of buying E220 1994. How do I tell if the car that I am interested in is still in good conditions (body and engine wise)? Any tips? Thanks

 

[kensalriser]

Use your eyes! Does the bodywork look nice or is it covered in scratches, dents and dings? Can you find any rust bubbles (look in sills, wheel arches, door bottoms and drainage channels in bonnet and boot closures. Look down the side of the car from front and back - if there are any bumps there may be accident damage repairs (some check for filler with a magnet).
Check the engine bay - is it clean and tidy or a horrible mess? Check oil dipstick for cleanliness of oil.
Look at the condition of the interior - has it been looked after or abused? If one thing's been abused, chances are it all has.
Very important - check service booklet and any receipts. Careful owners keep receipts, not just a book full of stamps.