Greetings from New Zealand!
I am desparately trying to get information on a 1992 190D. This is being sold by a car dealership in another city and I am keen on an oil burner but I do not know enough about them. This car is apparently a low mileage one is an auto! Can anyone please help me with info on its reliability, what to look for when buying as well as what the big services are for this model. I doubt if it has a turbo. Can any of these performance improvements be retro-fitted to this car to get better economy and efficieny.

My alternatives are a Citroen Xantia Turbo Diesel or a Citroen petrol version. I am interested in safety, reliability and economy which is why the 3 pointed star seems like the way to go.

Any help, information or pointers will be most appreciated.

Thanks from Down-under!


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The 201 chasis is one of the safest ever made by Mercedes. The 2.5 engine is very reliable and I have seen them with over 300,000 miles in the US. The most important thing to look for when buying any car used is the maintenance book. Make sure it has been cared for and the oil changed properly. The timming chain should be checked every 90K miles or so for stretch.

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Benzmac:
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
LEAD TECHNICIAN FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM

Thanks for that most valuable information. It is most helpful. Were airbags standard for 1992 models or did they come as an option. Also, will the paint colour survive if the car was to be left in the open as I have no garage. The weather is not too cold or hot but the Ultra-violet is high in the southern hemisphere.

Are there any sites / links to your knowledge about this particular model with tips on routine care and maintenance.

Thanks once again for your help.

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Do not quote me on this but I think that dual airbags were standard after 1992. Ask the paint question on the Detailing section...I'm sure Lee can help you!!!

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Benzmac:
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
LEAD TECHNICIAN FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM

Haris,
Keeping paint looking great when left out in the open isn't impossible at all! It is just a bit more work than a "garage queen". Since the paint will be exposed to the worst nature has to offer "24/7" you will have to work hard to keep a good coat of wax on it. The abuse will be more focused on the horizontal surfaces (hood, rear decklid, roof, etc) Instead of a monthly waxing you might have to wax every other week. Also be sure to keep bird droppings and other contaminents off the surface. It is possible to have a "wow" looking car that lives outdoors, it is just harder to keep it looking nice after its washed and more maintenance in the long run. I've never been a huge fan of car covers. (except when freshly detailed) Dark colors fade more noticeably than lighter colors. I'm not sure which car care brands you use locally but buy the best and use it faithfully. I would recommend Meguiar's "Mirror Glaze" lineup. Its the stuff in the tan bottles that is designed more for the professional seeking professional results. The stuff in the redish bottle is more for the someone who wants a "quick and easy" product. Still good stuff, but not nearly the best. Hope this helps, if you have any other questions or problems feel free to ask. That is what we are here for.

Lee