Well, after changing the battery to a Interstate Grp 93 and finally getting my block heater cord installed, I've found that the old Benz starts up just like in summertime. Like one quick crank the moment the glowplug light goes off. She starts like a champ and the blower starts blowing just about instantly with tepid air.
By the time I've reached the highway, its already showing 40 degrees and real heat is starting to come out. It does smoke a little white/grey smoke on startup, but this goes away as soon as the car is really warm.
Oh and discovered one can change the block heater cord from above by simply removing the air filter bellows and reaching in with some choice curses
