Mercedes-Benz 190: All 190 Models (W201 series) 1982 to 1993: Essential Buyer's Guide

by Julian Parish

Overview

The 190 (W 201) was a landmark car for Mercedes-Benz: the predecessor to today's C-Class models, it was the company's first compact saloon (sedan) and combined advanced engineering with a new direction in body styling, later followed by the W124 and R129 series. Engines available included robust petrol and diesel 'fours', as well as a silky ‘straight-six'. The sporting 190 E 2.3-16 and 2.5-16 models, initially developed with Cosworth, took Mercedes to new levels of performance. Altogether, nearly 1.9 million cars were produced, and today the 190 is an increasingly sought-after modern classic. This guide will help you learn about the differences between models, and what to look for when buying. What are the true running costs, and what issues - with the mechanicals, body or interior - should you be wary of? Is a restoration worth considering? This handy guide will take you step-by-step through the process of finding and evaluating a good 190 and making a successful purchase. Essential data and information about clubs and specialists will help you look after and enjoy your 190.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781845849276
Publisher:	Veloce Publishing
Publication date:	06/05/2018
Series:	The Essential Buyer's Guide
Pages:	64
Product dimensions:	5.46(w) x 7.68(h) x 0.21(d)

About the Author

Julian Parish hails from the south of England, but has now lived and worked in France for many years. After a career in publishing and international software development, Julian now contributes regularly to magazines including Classic & Sports Car, and translates motoring content from French and German into English. He has both written and translated several of Veloce's Essential Buyer's Guides, mainly concentrating on the Mercedes-Benz marque, for which he has a particular passion. He has also written the popular travel guides France: The Essential Guide for Car Enthusiasts and The Essential Guide to Driving in Europe, also published by Veloce. Julian is a member of the Guild of Motoring Writers.

Table of Contents

Introduction: The purpose of this book 3

1 Is it the right car for you?: Marriage guidance 6

2 Cost considerations: Affordable, or a money pit? 8

3 Living with a 190: Will you get along together? 10

4 Relative values: Which model for you? 12

5 Before you view: Be well informed 15

6 Inspection equipment: These items will really help 18

7 Fifteen minute evalution: Walk away or stay? 20

8 Key points: Where to look for problems 25

9 Serious evaluation: 60 minutes for years of enjoyment 26

10 Auctions: Sold! Another way to buy your dream 44

11 Paperwork: Correct documentation is essential! 46

12 What's it worth?: Let your head rule your heart! 49

13 Do you really want to restore?: It'll take longer and cost more than you think 51

14 Paint problems: Bad complexion, including dimples, pimples and bubbles 52

15 Problems due to lack of use: Just like their owners, 190s need exercise! 54

16 The Community: Key people, organisations and companies in the 190 world 56

17 Vital statistics: Essential data at your fingertips 58

Index 64