Hey Guys:
I am new to the forums, but not to MB. Have been collecting for a few years now, but never had a big question like this. I am hoping I can get some feedback from a MB Tech. Here is the story (short version).

I have a 1986 190E, which before I go any further, I will say, we keep the car more for sentimental reasons than practicality. LOL! Anyway, over the past couple years, we have put alot of money into the car, basically gettting it into tip top shape both mechanically and looks wise. Spent maybe $3k or so.

Now, I notice I am losing coolant after a week or two of driving. not alot of miles, so it is a fairly prominent problem. From what I can tell, since there are no visible coolant leaks, I am pretty sure the head gasket may be bad, and losing the coolant thru the exaust, etc. So here is the question:

My mech wants to put another motor in the car..for $1800 or so. Isn't it alot chaper just to change the head gasket? I think the reasoning is because the car has 200k miles on it, that a younger engine may be better. but I dont really want to drop $1800 if I dont need to...any feedback would be great.