i am about to purchase a Mercedes Benz and have the choice of two very nice cars can anyone with a bit more knowledge than myself and thats everyone give me a little advice?
firstly there is a 300CE 1988 with 155000kms on the clock very tidy indeed. asking US$9000
the other is 230CE 1989 with 90000 on the clock also very tidy and asking US$7500.
My preference at this stage is the 300CE any trouble spots to look for when purchasing would be appreciated by this writer
regards

You should do a search on the subject. You'll find more info if you look under 124 chasis.

These are very stout/ reliable cars. Weak points are: the A/C has problems with the actuators that control the flow of air through the vents. You can tell there's a problem if little or no air is coming out the center vent but the defroster vent instead with the A/C on. They are also known to have a problem with the evaperator. Both are expensive to repair because you have to remove the entire dash.

Other weak points are the valve guides, not too expensive. I'm not sure is the years you mentioned have problems with the wiring harness. You can expect the radiator and water pump to need replacing around 110-120K (miles).

The most important thing is to be able to see the records from the cars history. If the things I mentioned have been done, you should be good to go for another 100K.

Good luck.

__________________
Mr. BILL

91 300E 120K
90 300SE 275K (sold)
92 BMW 525iM 120K
90 BMW 525iA 175K
85 300D 175K (sold)
84 300SD 245K (sold)

thank you Mr Bill I have decided to go with the 1988CE I took it for a big spin in the country it simply purred along.The log books are really good and he dropped the price by a $1000!
So I'm a very happy motorist.
regards

Congratulations! May you have many miles of safe enjoyment with your Benz.

__________________
Mr. BILL

91 300E 120K
90 300SE 275K (sold)
92 BMW 525iM 120K
90 BMW 525iA 175K
85 300D 175K (sold)
84 300SD 245K (sold)