Mercedes Benz repair: Repair Costs on Mercedes, maintanence costs, service history

Question
We are thinking about buying a used 1982 300 SD Mercedes w 200,000 miles, seller is asking $4,500...am tryting to find out approximate car care/maintanence/repair costs to make sure it's something we can afford to do properly, it is older, haven't seen it yet, just trying to do some homework, can't seem to find much on a car care costs. Would appreciate any help as to where I can find this kind of info,  maintanence costs, etc. TY for your time, Kathy

Answer
That is top dealer price for a perfect car with service/history records.
Any trace of rust or bubbling in the undercoating would kill the sale for me at that price.
Plan on $1,500 - $3,000 in the first year.
Repair cost can be cut if you DIY, but some special tools will be needed.

Who has the most rust and still drives
http://www.mercedesshop.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=86054

Fast navigation Do It Yourself Links
http://www.mercedesshop.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=142446