I have an '88 300E 5 speed manual. It will get about 26 or 27 on the highway and about 22 doing a lot of in town stop and go.

I keep extremely thorough records including mileage and gallons for every fill up and I don't remember EVER seeing 30.

That said, if it's a nice car, think long and hard before you pass just because of fuel mileage. If you like driving a stick, this is a FABULOUS car to drive.

Hope this helps,