If you are still seriously interested in this car, you ought to take it to a Mercedes indepenent mechanic for a ppi (pre purchase inspection). It'll be the cheapest $100 you'll ever spend.

It likely needs a tranny rebuild, which could run between $1,500 - $2,000, but it could also be a worn out flex disc or need transmission or differential mounts.

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Paul S.

2001 E430, Bourdeaux Red, Oyster interior.
79,200 miles.

1973 280SE 4.5, 170,000 miles. 568 Signal Red, Black MB Tex. "The Red Baron".