It does sound like you have several, possibly unrelated, problems. It's going to be fairly difficult to solve them long distance.

If I were you, I would seek out a really good, honest independent MB technician. I would have to think in your area there must be a few! I'd start by talking to the president of the local MBCA chapter (can find in the STAR magazine) and find out who the local club members take THEIR cars to... Trust me, they will know who's good!

Then, I'd let this tech spend an hour or two with the car just looking it over to see what you're facing. At that point, you'll be in a much better position to know whether to trade it or fix it; also, you can then make a list of what needs to be done, and how urgent each problem is, so you can plan out some of the more elective repairs.

__________________
Steve
'93 400E