You need to have your cooling system pressure checked before going any further in your diagnosis. You may have a small leak somewhere that is not immediately apparent.

My 85 500 SEL (US) has had a similar history, but with only 107k. The radiator, hoses, water pump, thermostat were all replaced at the dealer (MB coolant too)in the last two years at about 95k. I have only owned the car a couple months (ala newbie). The original owner was up front about the work done but made it sound routine. The dealer records state that the car is "within normal operating parameters".

The car runs in low 80's during normal smooth traffic, but climbs to 95+ in stop/go or city driving. The fans are working, but the car smells hot when I get home. Since I live in the northwest we are just now beginning to see warmer days.

What is "normal" operating temp? Is this something I should be concerned about, or just the nature of the beast?
What are other V8 W126's city/hwy operating temps?

Thanks for helping out a newbie!

Old blue,
Your engine temp is the same as mine, and the same as most Mercedes anywhere, I'm sure. That is COMPLETELY normal. I would worry if the fans didn't kick in at 100, and/or the temp rose to 110 or above.

But what I would like to know is why do MBs temp always stay 'normal' just about 80 until after they are a few years old...!?

__________________
2006 E350 w/ 155k miles (Daily Driver)

Previous:
1993 300E 3.2L Sedan w/ close to about 300k miles
2003 E500 Brilliant Silver (Had 217k miles when totalled!)
1989 300E with 289,000 miles (had for <1 yr while in HI)
03 CLK 500 cabrio (Mom's)
2006 C230k (Dad's)
1999 S420 (Mom's/Dad's)
2000 C230k Sport sedans
2001 CLK320 Cabrio (Mom's)
1995 C280 My First Mercedes-Benz... (155k miles. EXCEPTIONAL AUTOMOBILE. Was Very hard to let go of!)

Thanks David

Guess I will stop worrying about this problem that is not a problem.