Normally, you can get the tumbler out if you can insert the key. You can use a remote starter switch hooked up to the engine bay fuse panel. You can ask "someone" how to hotwire it, all the info is out there if you are intent on finding the info.

Unless you have some urgent need to buy this car, without being able to start it you obviously can't tell what you're getting into. Just one of any number of major things wrong could easily mean thousands in repairs. If you could even just insert the key and turn it to the power (engine off) position, you'd be able to check the DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) plug in front of the battery and read the codes via the flashing LED.

V-8's are great, but they can easily be a very deep money pit even on a normal running 400E, let alone one that can't be started much less driven. I agree with a previous poster, if you're willing to gamble with $500 then it might make sense. Otherwise, I'd run not walk away.

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03 CLK430 Cabrio 211K Pweter Silver/ Oyster Leather
90 300SEL 214k Pearl Black/ Alto Grey/Black Leather

Prior: 85 190E, 88 300TE, 89 300TE, 90 300E 2.6, 90 300TE, 92 300E 2.6, 91 and 93 300SL, 87 Ferrari Mondial Cabrio