Keep it and buy the parts yourself and have someone else  put it in... will
chop at least $500 off that quote. Got a friend that is handy with car? Will
chop another $300 off that quote easily.

first make sure the GLOW START SYSTEM is ok.

if it starts put SAND BAGS in the trunk
150 LBS and be easy on getting going from a stop or you will see just
what TORK is all about

the case, minus a few cans!

Let's be pragmatic. If this old engine starts in the coldest days its a
keeper for sure despite its millage. But you know that its days are
numbered, if not for this winter then the next one.

So it's time to plan ahead. If you love this car then have the engine
rebuilt before next winter (or move to a warmer place) or look for a
used engine, preferably the same year so all the connections do in fact
connect.

I would be more worried about the car starting in that kind of weather and
the rust that you WILL have after you drive it on salted roads.
Those repairs can be done cheaply, you probably don't need the whole exhaust
system replaced, just parts, take it to a muffler shop.
Used rotors at a junk yard about 20-50 bucks a piece and the pads, 22 a set.
Better get a plug in heater , my diesel hated the wet winter more than the
cold, and started
driving great once I crossed out of pa. into va. and has been running great
ever since, 365K on her.
Best of luck,
Jim

There are cheaper exhaust systems than Benz's that I think are better
(timevalve.com for one). Also the pads and rotors are a total rip off.
Though I suppose the rotors may be a bit difficult, pads take 10 minutes to
do. Go somewhere other than the dealer and that quote will drop fast.
Richard

I know it doesn't feel like it to you right now but that's a classic car
that many on this board would be glad to have. I'd fix it. Get the parts
yourself and put them in if you can. I'm sure an independent shop can do it
cheaper. Don't sell it. You won't be able to replace it with anything that
can compare no matter how much you spend.