As it turns out, I've found a metallic beige `88 with 98k within 25 miles of my house for $5k (it was $6k but the owner's replacement car arrived so they reduced it). It's a 2nd owner, they bought it from the original owner with 46k miles and have all service records since. They've given me the name of the MB specialist in Austin that's serviced it and the VIN for doing a Carfax. I've only seen photos, paint looks clean, lots of tread on the tires.

One thing I noticed in the photos is it looks like the chrome has worn away on the rims. (See the attached photo). Is this unusual or a cause for concern?

I'm not in a huge rush. I've got a 2002 Toyota RAV4 but my wife finally started driving so I'm looking for a 2nd car for myself.

I appreciate all the advice. It's good to know this forum is here. I'm in the Internet marketing biz and use forums on a daily basis so I googled Mercedes forums and found this site last night. Excellent.

Jim, I've got the Frank Barrett book, bought it five years ago when I first considered this. It's been a big help even though it's ten years old.

~Bill

Attached Thumbnails