OMG, what a bunch of pu$$ie$

Do it! I miss my 400E dearly. The SL is a great car, but I'll have to pick up a 500E at some point. The 400E is a special car nonetheless.

Get the 92. More HP, different ECM. Does it have ASR? If not, that's a bonus. The fact that the trans has already been replaced will solve about $1500-$2500 of your future problems.

Timing chains aren't an issue on an m119 (well, maybe not til 400k, unless it has a poor oil change history).

Has the AC evap been done? Also, they eat through caps and rotors every 30k. See if they've been done. Has the car been sitting, or currently being driven? That's a plus if it is. They really soak up moisture if not run regularly.

The friend I sold mine to is an MB tech, and he has gotten my old beast into fine running condition. He's getting near 30mpg on the highway, albeit with 15" wheels and tires from a 300E and keeping it around 65. The 93+ does not have the "wot enrichment" ECU, so as long as you keep your foot out of it, your mileage shouldn't be worse on a 92. But it's such fun if you do!

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former: 83 300D, 97 C230, 93 400E

current: 08 C300 Luxury , 92 500SL