After trying many things, I took it to a local Mercedes guy (no dealer here). He checked the valve timing and it was right. He checked the compression and it was fine. After a weak of jacking with it he says the vacuum pressure is measuring 10inches and should be 15-17 . BUT he couldnt find any substancial leaks. I have looked and have found only slight leaks that I fixed. Very weak . Hot start is near impossible, while cold is easier but not easy. no power at start but after 40 mph it pulls better.
Is there anything mechanical that could cause low vacuum pressure.
It appears that I made a big mistake thinking I could buy this car and figure it out. My wife is looking forward to having a car again some day soon...hopefully.

Cam or ignition timing would be the most likely issue.

Has he checked the ignition timing with the car running?

Has the fuel mixture been checked? Possibly too LEAN!

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Cam or ignition timing would be the most likely issue.

No, he pulled cover and checked the cam timing. Not certain if he checked the ignition timing, though. I Assumed that he had but I will ask him.

Has he checked the ignition timing with the car running?

Has the fuel mixture been checked? Possibly too LEAN!

I am SURE it's running too lean, but any adjustments would be futile with improper vacuum pressure, as everything is related to it. Drove 10 miles to church yesterday and coming uphill home it got really hot. at cruise speed on highway it's mostly fine, but stp n go is terrible.
thanks for your comment.