Mercedes Benz repair: Mercedes VDO Throttle Bodies 0001419725 A0001419725, mass air flow meter, mass air flow

Question
Hi, my mechanic says I need to replace the above part to fix poor idle and sluggish acceleration. Car is 1996 Merc E230, a 4 cylinder 2.3 litre model, don't think it is sold in USA but quite popular in Australia. There is one on ebay, item 150393535987 which is second hand. New is too expensive but will a used one be reliable. Can I be sure the diagnosis is correct? New mass air flow meter sensor has been ordered and is in the post but I have been told that I need both parts.
Thanks,
Robert

Answer
usually when I buy an older MB i search boneyards or go to online forums for parts ebay is also good. as far as electrical I would buy new but a maf sensor is more mechanical then electrical Did you try cleaning it out? there are good write ups on cleaning your maf sensor at benzworld.org