I personally would not even touch a 190E...

My 1992 190E 2.6 is approaching 220K and running nicely.

I think both 190E and 300E have the M103 engine.

I can only add . . .

The two share major components, like steering, suspension, brakes, transmissions, and a few engines. The 300E is longer, wider and has more interior room. However it is also heavier and a bit less sporty around turn.

The 190E has less interior space, particularly in the rear seat and not much adjustment for drivers in the 72" or more range.

As with any used Mercedes, whether it's a good purchase at this date will depend on the previous owners maintenance. Parts for both are readily available and both are probably one of the last series that home mechanics feel comfortable with.

Got both, had the 190 over 10 years before getting a W124 then never looked back. I really prefer the W124 series (see sig ). Have been driving the 190D again as its for sale. Its a great car but after getting out of that and into a W124 this evening I'm at peace with the decision to sell it.Same maint. cost, same known issues, but I'd rather have a W124.

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Hanno
'79 6.9 Sold (after 27 years)
'83 280SL, 5 spd.
'94 E320 Sdn. 5 spd conversion
'02 E320 Sdn.(on loan to mom!)
'87 300E (5 spd. conversion) Sold
'05 E500 Wagon

Since they share so many parts you may already have. They're basically the same only one is 90% the size of the other. It's beyond pointless to take a snobby attitude towards what was a very important car for Mercedes.

I love my 190E despite the fuel inefficiency, which for the day was decent but for today is horrible, especially for a small car. I keep it around for the handling and relative reliability.

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'02 BMW 325i
'85 300D 450k
'93 190E 2.6 170k(killed by tree)
'08 Ducati Hypermotard 1100S 6k
'06 Ducati S2R800 14k(sold)