1989 300E - starting problem, runs fine after
 

My 1989 300E has developed a starting problem. Once the car has been parked for a while, I turn the key and the engine turns and fires but does not run. It usually takes anywhere from 3-6 tries until the engine finally catches. Then it idles very roughly for about 4-6 seconds and then it smoothes out and runs fine. Once it is going, the car drives fine - no problems at all. Smooth idling when stopped, good acceleration, etc. I also smell gas fumes with no visible leak outside the car after I have driven it. Perhaps related?

Any ideas? Maybe the EHA? Leaking fuel pressure somewhere?

TIA.