I am in the begining stages of looking to purchase a 300CE. This site really brought it to my wishlist. What do I look for? Any particular year, etc.

I think Paul has summed it up pretty good. If I would add anything it would be that if you can find one with the Sportline option ('92-'95), you wouldn't regret it. But they are pretty rare.

Of course, the usual items when buying any MB apply, such as get one with good service records, make sure the AC blows cold, get a PPI done from a competant mechanic, etc.

Oh, and the earlier ones, up to '92 at least, had head gasket problems, so if you can find one that has already had it repaired, that would be a good thing.

Happy hunting!

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Steve

1992 300CE Sportline Sophie
1990 300E Emma - in the family
1979 240D Josephine - sold, but not forgotten
2004 Pacifica AWD

http://web.mac.com/dakota/Mercedes/Home.html

Check out this link:

http://www.mbusa.com/brand/container.jsp?/overview/overview_engine.jsp&yearModelCode=88_CE300COUPE&class=88_E&rnav=024568&menu=2_2

They all look virtually the same, except that 94-95 got the new hood / grill / headlights.

1993-1995's got the 3.2 liter M104 engine, so I'd put these years at the top of my list.

Next, I'd look for 1990-1992's as they got a 3.0 liter version of the M104 engine (it doesn't have variable valve timing like the 3.2 liter version).

Last, I think I'd look at 88-89, as they got the least powerful engine, the 3.0 liter M103.

Having said that, I think all of the years are great cars.

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Paul S.

2001 E430, Bourdeaux Red, Oyster interior.
79,200 miles.

1973 280SE 4.5, 170,000 miles. 568 Signal Red, Black MB Tex. "The Red Baron".

Check to see if the wiring harness has been replaced, it's a problem (but not too expensive to fix). Early warning signal is if the car idles rough - it may act like the idle's not set high enough when the AC is turned on.

I vote for the 3.2 litre motor. I followed that recommendation when I bought mine and am very glad I did given the limited performance enhancements available for the 124.

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1992 500E

The most important thing is service records, whther it has been in an accidnt or not, and the issues others have mentioned.

Another very important item, is a trusted independent tech who can give youa through Pre purchase inspection.

Alon

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'92 300CE - Sold
2004 C240 - 744 - C7 Wheels - Android Radio
2002 C320 - 816 - Sport Wagon - Sold
2006 E350 Wagon - 368 - Dead
2015 GL350 Bluetec - 197U