1990 300te test drive
 

I just test drove a 1990 4 matic wagon with 225M miles. Body was perfect, interior clean. Started fine. Acceleration is a bit sluggish, but my present car, a 1997 volvo T5 is very fast, so most cars seems sluggish in comparison. Ride was good, brakes good. However, the yellow 4-matic indicator on the dashboard was lit the whole time I drove it. Is this the sign of trouble?

Yes, and the 4-matic emblem on the outside is a sign of trouble.

Run away fast, as soon as you see the 4 matic badge on the trunk.:D

The later 4 matics are better though.

If you can, try the '98+ 4Matic wagons instead. The 4Matic system in those cars are vastly less problematic.

Sorry guy...but everything I have read about 1990 4 matics has been just terrible. I own two 1990 300TE wagons...and luckily had read about the 4 matics ahead of time. Steer clear. Drive in the opposite direction. Berate the person for trying to sell you a money pit :rifle: :smash: :twak:

These 1990 300TE's are great cars. I have been very happy with my first one. The second arrived needing some TLC due to a neglectful po, but mechanically has been running excellent....despite the po's best attempts at neglecting that too. I have to remind myself that these cars are 15 years old. 15 years old...15 years old....I would take these 15 year old 300TE's over many new cars.

Just avoid the older 4 matics like the plague.

That's very funny...and very true....

Stick to the simple RWD models and you'll be fine