Assuming he has a U.S. model, it should start off in 1st gear and shift 3 times. His description is little vague, but I would check the trans. fluid and the Vacuum Modulator.
I been driving my '93 190E since new and when I drive my SLK230 there is no comparison in transmission operations. The W201 has its own characteristics.

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1993 190E 2.3
2001 SLK230
1971 LS5 (454) Corvette Convertible