I just purchased a 1987 190DT with very low mileage. (<120K) It was never used for any long travels and mainly around town stuff of a few thousand miles a year. The Engine and transmission appear to be in perfect condition save for a radiator leak and IP seals. There have been many new parts installed recently including glow plugs, alternator, ball joints and tires. Service and oil changes have been done regularly. I have all of the service records since the day it left the showroom. Basically, I am very happy with the car considering that I was not looking to buy it but at the price, I could not be turned away. The unfortunate issue is that the car has spent its life in salt road country and never enjoyed a garage. It has suffered significant rust harm on the rear wheel wells, rocker panels and trunk wells. In years past it has suffered a poor paint job. Several panels have minor dents. The interior demonstrates signs of neglect as well, not to mention the interior is a less than handsome color. I have a couple of opportunities to pick up donor cars with bodies in much finer condition than the body on my 190DT. If it were not for the future classic potential of this car I would consider it to be a no brainer to do an engine swap into a prettier car. If I were to leave the engine in this car it would need rust repair and a full paint job along with an interior swap. What would you do?

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