So they spent 8 dollars on it last year. What a bargain. Just kidding. I've never seen a 85 190E with an air bag. Check the pollution sticker under the hood. That's the best way to tell what year model it is. As far as the transmission I would have it rebuilt if you are serious about keeping the car. You've already got a used one and I believe you can get another 100K miles on the car if it was properly maintained.