I'm not trying to be difficult, but R-12 isn't illegal to use. It's still readily available, but you can't just buy it over the counter -- you need to be a certified tech.

Unless something has changed, you can become "certified" by taking a simple test on the internet... then you're able to buy it anywhere.

There's been much discussion on this forum as to the merits of converting an R12 system over to R134. You'll have to come to your own conclusion on that.

Regarding the 201 you're looking at. The $3400 is KBB retail for that car. I wouldn't offer a penny over $2000. Personally, I feel these cars are "worth" more than that, but price is dictated by suppy and demand. And demand is extraordinarily low for an 18 year old Mercedes with 150K. Why? Because the general public is scared to death of the repair costs for an MB. Additionally, the general public has been hoodwinked into the notion that FWD (or better yet 4WD or AWD) are a NECESSITY if you live in an area that gets snow. Use this to your advantage. Make your offer, but be prepared to walk out the door. When they get sick of looking at it on their lot, they'll give you a call.

__________________
Jeff Pierce

Current Vehicles:
'92 Mercedes 190E/2.3 (247K miles/my daily driver)
'93 Volvo 940 Turbo Wagon (263K miles/a family truckster with spunk)
'99 Kawasaki Concours
Gravely 8120
Previous Vehicles:
'85 Jeep CJ-7 w/ Fisher plow (226K miles)'93 Volvo 940 Turbo Wagon
'53 Willys-Overland Pickup
'85 Honda 750F Interceptor
'93 Nissan Quest
'89 Toyota Camry Wagon
'89 Dodge Raider
'81 Honda CB 750F Super Sport
'88 Toyota Celica
'95 Toyota Tacoma
'74 Honda CB 550F