the 190 with 2.5 would be a pretty good car. there were a few issues with head gaskets but most would have been changed by now prob. with a stick (rare) they will get mid to high thirties on the highway. they drive like a benz and will not feel unfamiliar to a vw driver. kindof like cousins.

and the quality is imho better than a vw overall. no timing belt.

buy the best example you can afford and get it checked by a mb diesel familiar mechanic including a compression test.

i am partial to the 240d with a stick though. it is slow but engaging to drive and very simple to work on. and will go 500k with good servicing. it really has no weak points.

good luck

tom w

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.