I have been a diehard Mercedes 'nut' for over 28 years and have owned just about every chassis from a ponton to a 129 ('92 500SL). I like the looks of a 140, but because of the early 'problematic' issues have never purchased one - evaporator; wiring harness; 722.5 tranny; etc. I am fairly handy with a wrench and can do almost everything mechanical / electrical - except paint, body work and upholstery.

I have found a '93 300SE with 228,000 miles on the clock that has good original paint, good interior, good tires, tons of records (back to 72,000 miles), working windows & sunroof, functioning climate control, functioning door assist & trunk assist closing, central locking works, shifts out OK but needs a top end rebuild as it has a blown head gasket (running on 5 cylinders and blowing steam out the tailpipe). The only other problem I noticed was a cracked back glass, which is available in the local junk yard. I am sure there are other issues, as it has been sitting for quite some time and will need a LOT of cleaning, as well as, some small fiddley bits & pieces.

Since I am not aquainted with the 140 chassis, I am looking for some input on other problems I might expect to find. I did not try the electric seats (forgot) or the cruise control (did not have area to go fast enough). The price is cheap - just over scrap pricing.

So, if all the early 140 Owner's out there would speak up on problems they have encountered, I would be most appreciative.

Tom