For members considering the W201.

Looking for your unbiased thoughts now (years later).
Has your view changed, and why?

I guess I didn't have much of a view before I bought one except that the chassis was intended to be a cheaper, entry-level model for the Mercedes owner. I was concerned about build quality only because of that.

I can say though, after 2 years of OM601 diesel ownership that most of the main body components hold up as well as a W123.

Some failures:

-- door check straps and their mounting points to the jamb / chassis seem to to fatigue and fail. To repair this effectively requires ingenuity and a level of Rube Goldberg... or to do it correctly - intense bodywork and welding.

-- Trans is no weaker than the W123 era when considering the OM601 application. Low power, less stress... my trans has 296k miles on it and shifts fine after a Superior Shift Kit install , although sometimes with a weak 1-2. Still, it is worn out and I am waiting for the day it gives up.

-- interior door panels are cheap and warp easy with moisture, but fixable to a degree.

--Cluster is fully functional although the electrical gremlins are present and noticed. It is below W123 standards in terms of accuracy, but not in terms of longevity.

-- power window regulators will need attention. I have repaired mine and it was not difficult; they are made to be accessible. The design is cheap, but light and functional for a good span of time.

-- Paint is weaker than W123. Perhaps this is biased since my W123 had a single stage paint and the bronze paint on my W201 had dual stage (clear coat)

-- It seems like there is more rubber on the W201 suspoension to fail and repair... but it is well worth the handling, ride and accessibility upgrade from a W123.

I think the W201 is less prone to rust than a W123, but there is more plastic.

I would recommend the chassis to anyone interested that is able to repair engines or at least swap in a rebuilt unit.

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And, as you started this thread, the front suspension is not a problem to refurbish.

Door check- as soon as it starts to creak, replace it. Don't lubricate or other, just replace it.

Window regulator- I've replaced many between three 190's.

Ignition lock cylinder- as soon as you notice sticking or not smooth operation, replace it. Order keyed-alike replacement from dealer, and just bite the bullet.

Hood pad- the foam just doesn't last.

Dash board- most have cracks, especially the 80's vehicles. Doesn't matter how people have tried to preserve it.

Door panels- bummer that the vinyl over the arm rests tends to shrink and pull away from the panel.

I went through a 1993 car at a Pick n' Pull yard, and it's interesting what the factory changed over the model run to improve the 201 closer to the 124 level. My 84 diesel is still fun to drive around