I think I can say without too much fear of contradiction that the most likely cause is fuel system related. Varnish can really take hold after a year, and there could be plugged up fuel system components left and right.

For starters, I would replace the fuel filter just because it's a good idea to replace the filter on a car that's been sitting that long.

If that doesn't help things, a fuel pressure test would be my next step.

Meanwhile, let's get under the hood and take the air cleaner off. Get a flashlight and start digging around looking for vacuum leaks. Any old rubber is suspect on a 19 year old car. Check the hose that goes from the valve cover to the intake manifold, it likes to crack on the underside. Check the hoses that connect to the idle air valve.

Also, pull out the plugs and see if they're coated up with oil or fuel. Clean or replace them as necessary.

Take of the distributor cap and inspect the cap and rotor.


All of those are things you can check out in about an hour total.



Good luck. Post your findings.

__________________
-tp


1990 300SE "Corinne"- 145k daily driver - street modified differential - PARTING OUT OR SELLING SOON - PORTLAND OR. AREA - PM ME FOR DETAILS
1988 560SEL "Gunther"- 190K passes anything except a gas station
1997 S420 - 265k just bought it with a rebuilt trans. Lovely condition