190D, Good or Don't bother?
 

I plan on getting another diesel. My wife likes the body style of the 190d. How are these diesel cars? Any thing about them that are prone to problems? How about fuel milege? Do they come with either a OD auto or 5sp? Or should I consider a VW Jetta TDI? Thanks in advance, andy

The 190D's have good engines and the 2.2 and 2.5 were available with standard trans. The 2.5 turbo came with an auto only. From what I've read, MPG is in the mid 30's and up for these cars. I think you'd have more problems with windows and electronics than the engine with a 190D. But if price is not an issue, I'd go with the VW since its a turbodiesel and is available with a 5spd.

The 2.2 is a little sluggish. The 2.5 is OK. The 2.5 Turbo is a rocket, but a rare car.

Go with the benz!

My mechanic doesn't like the 190 series, but they seem to be very nice cars. He feels that they have more than their fair share of problems, none specifically related to the diesel except the cracked head problem with the 600 series engines.

There is a 1984 in the "you pull it" yard down here -- completely stripped except for dash (ruined by the vultures) and the doors, so I suspect there are quite a few of them out there that need seats, carpet, radios, speedos, etc. The body was it very good shape -- minor rust only!

Peter

I had a 190D 2.5 5 speed for about 5 years and 120K miles. It was pretty trouble free. I've heard lots of bad things about the 190 series but I've had very good experiences with them.

The 5 speed Diesels (2.2 and 2.5) could exceed 40MPG on the highway. I have not driven a newer VW TDI but the mid 80's Benz Diesels were far superior to the VW's of the day.

I have been very happy with my 190D 2.2. I have driven about 250 of the 317kmi. It is a wonderful car with the 5 speed, but rather sluggish with the auto.

My car is a very early 2.2 (motor No. 354) (the first 1700 were a little different than the later 2.2's). I am as happy, if not happier with this car than the 123 and 126 617's that my family also owns.

I appreciate the responses. Please keep them coming. I'll see if I can find one to test drive in my area. Thanks, andy