Hi everyone! New member here. Hope everyone is having a great day!

My question regards the asking price for a 190E 2.3 16 I want to purchase. The car is from 1987 with a manual gearbox. It appears to be in excellent condition (inside and out), and the owner claims it drives wonderfully. I'm very impressed by it's overall condition.

Owner is asking $11,000 US dollars, and that seems a bit high to me. Does anyone have any experience in buying/selling these cars? Is $11,000 too much for one of these cars or is that what they usually go for considering its condition? ANY feedback would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks,
-D

The fortunes of the 2.3-16 are on the rise. Limited production, enthusiast appeal and rock bottom prices have drawn the attention of many. There aren't many "great quality" examples still existing, since these cars required above average maintenance. As subsequent buyers took them, they typically got thrashed and not kept to spec.

Therefore, it's crucial in evaluating any 16 valve to get it inspected by a shop that is familiar with this vintage. Having shim adjusted valves, a very picky intake system, self leveling rear suspension and other unique pieces, it has to be done in addition to all the other W201 issues (A/C, front and rear suspension bushings, rust locations, vacuum elements).

Prices for these cars have ranged wildly due to the condition they find themselves in. A project car can probably be found for $3K, a running "needs some work" model is anywhere from $3-4K, and "used, but not abused" ones going for $5-6K.

Beyond that, the car needs to be something special. Single owner, well maintained, low miles (which in itself, without maintenance, may be a negative), showroom condition.