It took me over a year to find a decent, well-priced, rust-free W110/111 when I was on the lookout. It seems that very few are left, and for every nice one there are a dozen rusty, dented ones with torn headliners and sunburned rear seats. 108s are easier to find (and are pretty much a Heckflosse wearing different clothes), but they don't have quite as much quirky character.

I think the best weapon you have in this fight to get the good Benz is time and patience. The buyer who is in a position to walk always gets the best car in the end.