Hundebein: 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16V Cosworth

In the world of fast German luxury sedans, there is an interesting rivalry between the BMW M3, Mercedes-Benz C-AMG, and Audi's S4.  These three compact executive cars have been brawling since the beginning of time..and while you might think that BMW landed the first punch in the German street car brawl with its barn-storming E30 M3...but the truth is Mercedes-Benz launched the 190E 2.3-16V Cosworth in the same year -- and the 190E hasn't appreciated into stupid price territory, yet. Find this 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16V Cosworth offered for $8000 in Hillsborough, NJ via hemmings. Tip from BP.

Dog Leg Manual: 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300SL

The R129 generation Mercedes SL convertible was built on a shortened version of the W124 E-Class sedan platform for a remarkably long 13 year model life from 1989-2002.  It was  available in the affordable inline-6 300SL, roarty 500SL V8 and nutty V-12 600SL - but if you want one with a clutch pedal, you'll have to go for the 300SL.  Find this 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300SL offered for $3,500 near Dallas, TX via craigslist. Tip from Rock On!

Hund Bein: 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16v Cosworth W201

If you believe the self-effacing prose from automotive pundits like Jack Baruth you might get the impression that old cars are terrible and rebuilding a suspension will cost you $12,000 (Canadian dollars maybe?) and the car will still be terrible.  On the opposite side of the racetrack you'll find forum posts describing a similar experience to the hoots and cheers of a crowd of fan boys.  The truth probably lives somewhere in the middle, but you'll have to do it yourself to know for sure.  Pickup this 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190e 2.3-16v Cosworth for $5,000 in SF Bay Area, CA via craigslist.  Tip from Kaibeezy.