Call 1-800-FOR-MERC(EDES) and give them your VIN as well as your personal information. They can advise you if there are any open recalls. They also have access to the VMI (vehicle maintenance information), but that only gives information about work done while the car was under warranty and it is very likely that older cars (like early 80's and back) may not be in the system. They won't give you the VMI, but may tell you a little about your car if you catch them in a good mood. Dealers also have access to the VMI, but MBUSA does not allow them to give it out anymore, but if you've got a good relationship with someone at the dealership, you may be able to at least read it and take copious notes. Some will still even print it out for you.

__________________
Len
'59 220S Cabriolet-SOLD and living happily in Malta
'83 240D 351,500 miles original owner-SOLD
'88 560SL 41,000 miles - totaled and parted out
https://sites.google.com/site/mercedesstuff/home
'99 E300 turbo 227,500 miles
'03 SLK320 40,000 miles - gave to my daughter
'14 Smart electric coupe 28,500 miles
'14 Smart electric cabriolet 28,500 miles
'15 Smart electric coupe 28,000 miles