I have spent the weekend reading through all the descriptions and photos that everyone has posted here to remove the rear door panel on their MB. Thanks for all the help.
I know I'm getting closer, but I don't wanna break something. I have removed the 10mm bolt holding the top of the door handle, did NOT find any screws under the lower handle, unclipped the door release rod, did not find any applicable screws behind the ashtray and suceeded in breaking one of the lower retaining clips (oops!) but the panel seems to be as solid as ever. I think the door release lever is still stuck on something... Some specific advise for this '92 300D model would be greatly appreciated.