I should have this stashed away for a C&P, but I'm too lazy . . .

On the W201, similar to the W124, the cluster can easily be pushed out without hooks, with the speedo cable unscrewed from the cluster (not the trans), IF you remove the plastic air vent ducting that runs from the center console to the driver's side vent. Remove the underdash panel and knee bolster. The black plastic ducting is snap fit plastic and does not require any tools to remove, it just pulls off the ends of the vents on either side. With the plastic ducting removed, even the Incredible Hulk can get his mitts on the knurled brass speedo cable fastener on the back of the cluster and undo it. Then it's just a push from the underside/back and the cluster can then be grasped from the steering wheel side. The only tools you need are a screwdriver to remove the underdash panel, a flashlight and oossibly a wire cutter to clip one ground wire, which is repaired when re-installing.