I bought a 2000 C230 Kompressor a while ago. It was a one owner, meticulously maintained. Its got around 127k on the odometer, (I can't tell exactly, cause the lights are going out) and an automatic tranny. it ran like new, besides needing new motor mounts (I assume, it shakes in park, and at idle) but it ran pretty well.

Since the weather has been nice, I've noticed a "ticking" noise. Almost sounds like a cracked header, but it might just be the noise from the injectors. I never noticed it before, but I haven't driven with my windows down so that might be normal. No CEL codes or anything.

The past couple days, it hasn't been starting too well, sounds pretty weak, like it doesnt want to, but it does. Almost like it's been sitting for a while. But I drive it daily, so I'm not sure what that's about, then on the way home it started having terrible acceleration. I'll press on the gas, and it just doesn't register with it, but after a second or two it'll gently and gradually speed up. So I'm not sure what this could be. Theres no jumping, or lurching, just a delay in the actual acceleration.

Anyone have any ideas? From the hour or so of internet research, I've read pedal sensor, MAF, fuel filter or plugs and wires. Doesn't feel like a misfire though.

Thanks in advance!