Hey,

I just bought a 1980 Mercedes 230ce. It seemed to run all right for the first week. I then took it for some highway driving, but after about twenty minutes at 70mph it began to overheat. I pulled over to let it cool down. The radiator was still full of fluid. It was beginning to smoke from the radiator and the back of the engine. After sitting for about 45 minutes, I started it and let it idle. The thermostat kept slowly rising toward about 100 degrees celsius. I have not let it cool completely down and driven it since, but am headed that way soon. Any ideas on what's wrong with it? My brother said it would be in my best interest to go ahead and tear it apart, to install a new head gasket, water pump, and maybe thermostat as well. However, I'm having difficult locating any information about my car online. Anyone have general info on the 230ce? It seems to be missing on Mercedes parts websites. I can't find stats, engine info, or anything! I'm not the most car saavy person; I know just enough to get by. However, I'm willing to learn what I need to fix this car. So, if anyone has info, please share!
Any owners that can give me some tips?


Thanks,
Matthias