I have a 1990 TE 4MATIC and have had to replace the transfercase (TC) due to the common internal hydraulic leak problem. But all in all I have been happy with the car in my 4 years of ownership. The PO replaced one front drive boot but the rest are original. My car has 100kmi on now. The 4MATIC mods add about 300lbs to the car and the performance suffers slightly too. If you are really interested in buying one make sure it has the MB rebuilt transfer case and that the transfer case fluids have been changed every 15k. If the TC has not been done, then it will eventually leak and you will be looking at $2.5K to R&R. So low ball the seller on this fact. The rest of the car is the typical 124. Where the rad can break and valve guides wear among other things. Be aware that the 4MATIC has different front suspension and it does cost more to repair, but if you live in an area where snow is common then a used $MATIC can be a solid/cheaper alternative to a new 4WD vehicle. You can contact me at
benzjunkie@yahoo.ca for other info if you like.