Vehicle: 1993 190e-2.3; 1992 300E-3.0, 1998 Saab 9000T
Location: Brunswick, GA
Posts: 107
The 190 is a nice car, but that's kindof a funny question, whether a 15-20 year old car is reliable. I guess the 190 is as reliable as any other 15-20 yoa car, but it also has a lot more sensors, valves, solenoids, etc, than some cars. Also, consider that you are supposed to use premium gas. I can get over 30 mpg on the highway with my 93 2.3-8. I would say if you want something for the wife, get a newer car. A Toyota or Honda comes to mind as a reliable, cost-effective car.
I guess the 190 is as reliable as any other 15-20 yoa car, but it also has a lot more sensors, valves, solenoids, etc, than some cars.
An argument could be made that of 15-20 year olds, it might be one of the more reliable. As for the number of sensors, valve, solenoid . . . there really aren't "a lot more."
The key to finding any good used car is the maintenance invested in it by previous owner(s). Buying a used Mercedes that has had the least amount of prior owners statistically is better since their initial investment was typically higher and generally leads to the ability and desire to properly maintain their property.
As prices tumble over the years, subsequent owners who are buying on the cheap tend to justify letting the cars fall into neglect. For instance, why spend $1K to refurbish the front suspension when you bought the car for $3K?
There's the problem for the W201 chassis cars. With used prices well below $5K, the incentive to maintain them is hard for current owners unless they are enthusiasts or competant DIY folks.
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