MERCEDES 260 (1990)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 139 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
77%
Total Tests (2024)
139
Avg Mileage
118,180 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,397
Is the 1990 MERCEDES 260 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the MERCEDES brand average of 87%.
At 34 years old, 77% of MERCEDES 260s from 1990 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 139 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 118,180 miles.
How does the 1990 MERCEDES 260 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 1990 MERCEDES 260 has 118,180 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 251,600 miles for a 34-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
Best year to buy a MERCEDES 260?
The most reliable year is the 1991 model with a 92% MOT pass rate, while the 1990 model has the lowest at 77%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
How much does a 1990 MERCEDES 260 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
MERCEDES 260 by Year
Checking a specific MERCEDES 260?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 1990 MERCEDES 260
The 1990 MERCEDES 260 is a large car with a 2599cc petrol engine. 139 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 1990, the average MOT pass rate is 79%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 118,180 miles at 34 years old, MERCEDES 260 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver. Very low mileage could mean the car has been garaged or used only for short trips, which can cause its own issues like battery drain and moisture buildup.
1990 MERCEDES 260 Fuel Costs
The 2599cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 1990 MERCEDES 260?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,397 (£200/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 77% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MERCEDES 260 Reliability Trend
Newer MERCEDES 260s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 8 percentage points.
Buying a Used 1990 MERCEDES 260
At 34 years old, the MERCEDES 260 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age.
Alternatives to the 1990 MERCEDES 260
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- MERCEDES 300 (1992) 83% pass rate (+6%) from 1,096 tests
- PORSCHE 944 (1990) 85% pass rate (+8%) from 914 tests
- VOLVO 700 SERIES (1990) 75% pass rate (-2%) from 775 tests
- VOLVO 240 (1992) 72% pass rate (-5%) from 635 tests