BMW 535is or Mercedes 190E 2.3 16V Your Thoughts (SAC)

[Tim C. Meritzis]

Hello Friends,
     Sorry for lack of Audi content.  I know how some people get upset over this but I know I can always count on all of you for the best advice, even when it comes to other cars that don't compare to our beloved Audis!  I am looking to purchase one of the two cars listed in the subject line.  One of them is a 1984 Mercedes 190E 2.3 16 and the other is a 1988 BMW 535is.  Both cars are 5 speed with about 150,000mi average between the two.  I am an Audi guy and thought I should at least try one of the older competitor's cars.  I ran a carfax on both and they check out clean as a whistle.  I am currently driving (and always will) a 1990 Audi Coupe quattro 20V.  
    What should I look for in these cars?  Both are selling for around $4000.  Is there anything special I should know before I buy one of them?  ISV on the mercedes... Rear Subframe on the BMW.. These are couple things I know.  Is that 4 cylinder mercedes engine any good??  Any help is appreciated.

Tim Meritzis
1990 Audi Coupe quattro 20V
1999 VW Golf Wolfsburg Edition
1984 Subaru Brat D/L Rally EA81 Powered

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