I have a 1988 300CE. With 139,000 on the odo, the valve stem guides are original. Due to excess oil consumption, back at around 80k on the odo (6-7 years ago) I had the valve stem seals replaced. Easy Job. Problem solved. I now burn about a qt. every 3-3,300 miles or so.

I notice the car had the water pump and a/c compressor replaced at 88,900. My water pump went at about 110,000. I don't use AC much where I live. The compressor is original.

The radiator seam opened up on mine about 5-7 years ago. Might want to keep your eye on that. Also, the plastic neck on the M103 radiator had a habit of cracking with age. MY alternator went about 4 years ago.

The 3.0 had head gasket leaking issues. The 2.6 probably did too. Mine was replaced when I bought it, but now again weeps a little oil at the right rear. No problem.

Pretty strong engine. Lower end damn near bullet proof. Parts aplenty out there. The 2.6 and the 3.0 share many/most parts. In fact, my fuel distributor was switched out from a dealer's yard 190E 2.6.....12 years ago.

I had a 91 190E 2.6 before the CE. It performed very well....till my youngest daughter totaled it.

Good luck Dad.