I am about to buy a 1983 Mercedes TE Wagon with 140,000 miles on it. I would describe it as in very good condition. This wagon was made not for the US but for europe and is powered by gasoline. slight differences than the american wagon at the time (300 TD) like headlights and no 3rd seat. car has tiny bit of rust just starting on 2 wheel wells, a few dings here and there, needs piping repair work - but more importantly the looks great and seems to drive well. Questions anybody can weigh in:
1. is $5K A good price
2. the 300TD dominated the landscape then, are most parts interchangeable?
3. what was/is considereded a "better car": the european gas fueled TE or the 300 TD imported to USA?
4. I remember diesel engines had to be plugged in some winter nights due to cold ( although I grew up in upstate NY - now live in Boston) - is that the case?

seems the wagon is doing the delicate dance of looking great, but not to restore quality. I want a good looking wagon from this body stlye - I can find the 300 TD's - they seem to be cheaper than this when in similar condition
help - he wants the bank check tomorrow -