My best friend died in a crash on a motorcycle trip last year in northern California while riding with me. He left two cars to his son. A 1991 300CE, black with 8,800 miles and a 1996 C36 AMG, silver with 1,700 miles. I'm interested in the 300CE and will probably buy it. I've never owned a Mercedes and could use some advice. What should be done to this car and what concerns should I have with a car that has averaged about 550 miles per year? Should all fluids ie: brake, power steering, coolant, oil, trans, diff, etc. be changed. How about hoses, belts? Would it's limited use mean potential problems with engine and trans seals? The car never saw rain or snow. Was driven to shows, (and won) and on short trips. Any input would be appreciated. The C36 is also for sale. Any input on potential asking price would also be appreciated. Thanks in advance. Lots to learn about Mercedes. This forum should help. I previously posted in the C forum. My mistake!

 

the 91 is a charmer.the only thing to watch out for is the poor head gasket and oil leaks caused by it in the m104 engine and the wire harness was made out of poor material and if shot will cost almost a grand to replace more if you need a shop to do it.So have it inspected and even with low miles it is only worth about 4k.
the c36 is about 11k in the cash market and you could sell it today on the c36 forum on mbworld.org
are you a diy person?if so it is right up your alley.If not it gets very pricey to find old school mechanics to do the work.
www.autohausaz.com for parts
enjoy
ohlord

 

Thanks for your input. Yes I am a DIY type. Currently have a C6 Corvette, Acura TL and new Yukon Denali, two Harleys, a 1975 Norton Commando and a 1975 Yamaha dirt bike. I also have the facility and tools to keep everything in good shape. Currently I have zero Mercedes knowledge but I'm not afraid to read shop manuals and ask questions. Thanks for the advice.

 

I love the '91 CE. What a beautiful car. I had a '90 300E and was always jealous of the coupe. It had wonderful styling and a great engine. It's a shame that these cars didn't hold their value and that so many that I now see are in such poor shape. You have a gem on your hands that will require maintenance and tlc. But the joy of driving such a nice coupe... worth every bit. Serious personality in that car. Best of luck to you.[&:]

 

Thanks for the response. I guess I need to find a good independent Mercedes shop in the Detroit metro area that can go over the car, especially the wiring harness, and make sure the car is not in need of anything major. It certainly is not worn out but age can do strange things to any vehicle. I've seen pictures of the insulation failures in the 91 to 96 wiring harnesses and it is downright scarry to say the least!