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Baby Benz Bargain: 46k-mile 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.6


This 1989 Mercedes 190E 2.6 can be found in Clermont, FL with an asking price of $3,800. This 190E comes with the uprated 2.6L M103 (adding a 30hp step up from its M102 predecessor) and bringing power to a respectable 160hp, should be plenty of fun either as a weekend cruiser or a daily workhorse. Finished in white over beige MB-Tex, this pedestrian spec W201 is emblematic of what the "baby benz" was built to be: the entry-level MB for the rest of us.

What sets this particular example apart is the mileage, condition and the price. Showing only 46,000 miles, we're reminded how rare it is to find these commuter classics is such well preserved, low-mile condition.

The seller claims the car has no accidents, although a bending of the front bumper (underneath the classic MB slatted grill) shows there was at least some sort of parking lot contact at some point.

The overall condition seems to comport with an example of this mileage with paint that hasn't been faded from the Florida sun and, fortunately, an MB-tex interior that doesn't crack from the heat. We'd obviously want to see more photos of the front cabin to inspect the condition of the wood and the dash, but we're hopeful the front seats present as nicely as the rest of this well-preserved example.

One great indicator for condition on cars of this era is the rear netting on the back of the front seats. Seeing the netting in place, without sagging and without the cracked side straps is rare on cars of this vintage and hopefully representative of the care with which this car was maintained.

Regardless, the $3,800 price tag is hard to argue with from any angle. These cars are dependable, reliable, cheap to maintain and incredible on MPG for a perfect way to commute in style. We're sure this one won't last so act fast and grab some upside with this baby benz bargain.

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