I also think they get a bad rap. My '94 has been the 'best' MB and cheapest to maintain of all MBs I've owned.
Not counting tires, brakes and a battery, here's what been replaced:
1) DI module: $225 . . used from a NYC junk yard
2) Water Pump: . . . new, about $100
3) ETA: $750 . . . replaced w/ new one (got a price break!)
4) Motor Mounts: $45 . . bought from eBay . . new
5) Oil tubes: $50 . . replaced 6 that were bad.
6) Belt extender: $20 . . . used some old gears.
7) Headrest extender: $40 . . . replaced w/ new one.
8) Door Closing Assist: $45 . . . replaced w/ new one.
9) Spheres: $160 . . . replaced w/ new ones
But as sixto says. . they all have 'evaporators' and if you keep the car, you
will have to replace it.
10) Evaporator: $2100 . . included labor and parts (new compressor, exp valve, evaporator, fittings, refrigerant.
In
11 years, I'd say that was pretty good. .