Our Winner For April Is rjb190e!! Congratulations Bob!
Username: rjb190e
Name: Bob Beckage
Location: Georgetown, De
1990 190e 2.6 Cabernet Red Metallic Clearcoat, Navarrarot Metallic (Trim) Black MB- Tex Interior
I picked up my car in April of 2006 from an e-bay auction sight unseen with 68,422 (currently 84,000) miles. I spoke to the original owner prior to bidding. My car was registered in New Jersey in 11/89. It was a 40th birthday gift the owner gave to herself. She provided a well documented history of service from Mercedes-Benz of Cherry Hill. She even kept receipts for car washes. Bidding was a no-brainer, especially since there was no reserve.
This is the first M-B I have owned. I have had several other Euro cars including VWs Saabs and an Audi or two. Before my ride home I have never even driven a 190. It was somewhat of an impulse buy. Was I shocked at how smooth a 16 year old car felt. I knew at once this was a great vehicle.
Since I acquired my 190 I have tried to maintain a high level of commitment to keep my car roadworthy, trustworthy and aesthetically pleasing with tasteful updates. I put a great amount of time, energy and resources replacing things on my car that were OK, but I felt were somewhat of a ticking time bomb when you consider they are 16+ years old.
Mechanically, I have done (or my mechanic has done) the following: Radiator, hoses, belts, uninstall after market alarm, full brake job, wheel bearings, sunroof motor, window regulators, belts, belt tensioner, full exhaust, full tune up, all fluids replaced, alternator, gaskets, filters... and the list keeps going. I still think it’s a good idea to maintain AAA+ towing insurance, free towing for 100 miles ‘cause ya never know. I have no plans to keep the engine and driveline anything but stock.
As for the look of my 190 I am going strictly OEM Euro. As of now I have euro headlights, corner lights (darker orange), taillights sourced, front impact strip with Brandenburg plate, cubby on the inside, triangle in the trunk. Also replaced was anything in the interior that was broken and showed wear (door cards, vents, wood etc.). My latest install are a set of E-Class 16” wheels with 205/50/16 tires. I just like ‘em. In the future I will install the euro headlight switch and rear fog light. Maybe a trunk spoiler and I’m still kicking the paint idea around too.
Most people can’t believe the age of my car and are shocked when they find out it’s over 17 years old.
-Bob