Figure out where to stick a screwdriver through the grille to push the lever over to release the catch. Somewhere on the right side, near the top. I've not had to do this on on any of my cars, but I know you can. Some have a missing vertical bar in the grille -- that's where the screwdriver goes.

Have a new cable handy -- replace it once you get the hood open.

Peter

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1972 220D ?? miles
1988 300E 200,012
1987 300D Turbo killed 9/25/07, 275,000 miles
1985 Volvo 740 GLE Turobodiesel 218,000
1972 280 SE 4.5 165, 000 - It runs!