JPW

I have searched and it seems the answers are all over the place so I thought I would post and ask.

I have an opportunity to purchase a 1993 300E, 3.2L. for $4,000. The car was company car driven on the highway and has over 220,000 miles. The owner has all of the maintenance records and everything on it currently seems very tight and nice. Shifts well, sounds good, and rides very smooth. I have not had a chance to peruse the records so I am not sure what seals, gaskets, etc have been replaced. The AC blows cold (how cold should it blow when I check with a thermostat?) Body is in amazing shape and with on couple very small door dings and some of he usual swirl marks you will see on a black car of this age. No rust or accident damage, no oil drips that I can see.Interior is gorgeous grey leather with no cracks or tears.

My local dealer says that if the person can show valid routine maintenance on car that I could get a lot more mileage out of it. However I know these units are pricey to keep up but I simply love the W124 (and the W123).

Any input is appreciated.

bamberger_1

go and get it!! If it looks that graet what is $4,000?? How much car can you get for 4,000 if you go with another brand. Even if it needs an overhaul later so what???

Z300E

I have 93 2.8 with 100k. I would suggest having a mechanic you trust look it over first - no matter how many miles it has on it. I bought mine with 78K and all service records and it still had some problems - I didn't have it checked out first. The head gaskets are known to leak oil. The transmissions are know to leak fluid at the front pump seal - requiring the transmission be removed and seals replace ( big bucks ! ). That being said, I think it is fantastic car and I really enjoy driving it. Just be absolutely sure you know what you are buying. Good Luck!

Gasara

220,000 miles. Nearly ruin in Enjoy it. Oil seaping through the front of the head gasket is not uncommon, mine does but uses about a pint of oil every 4000 miles.

Kestas

From what you describe I would seriously consider buying the car, regardless of the high miles. You say the body is great condition and mechanicals are up to date. It's the body condition that makes or breaks a car. Because of the high miles though, you'll have to resolve yourself in keeping up with the mechanicals. If you're a DIYer and can handle these inevitable repairs, the car is right for you.

I'm not sure how to comment on the a/c. It's either cold or it isn't. I too like to check a/c with a thermometer. The vent temperature depends on the outside air temp. If the outside air is 80° or higher, I would like at least 42-45° from the vents, down in the high 30s would be ideal (ice cold). Anything above 50° would indicate that it needs service.