Addressed the glaring tire issue with a set of only ten-year-old Semperit winter tires I found under the barn. They are not very recent and not 100%, but they are more likely to get me to inspection and back without trouble, and able to withstand the snow that seems to return every other day. The tires come from a forever project Mercedes W201 that doesn't really need winter tires for the time being.
While changing the tires, I had a look at the fuel filler neck which I know to be a problem point on these cars, as it's quite unprotected and they rust really badly. Eventually there's a hole, the tank has crappy water in it and the fuel supply is compromised. Injectors cost money, etc.
Mine is rusty but not rotten through. A well aimed screwdriver would surely puncture the filler neck, but until a new part is sourced, it will have to do.
The underbody has been rust proofed at some point and looks good. All bolt on parts have surface rust, but that's par for the course.
Front shocks were said to be recently replaced and I was pleased to find out they were Sachs Supertouring items instead of the absolutely cheapest replacements one could source. Of course, ideally I'd have adjustable Konis front and rear, ACR style, but new Koni Yellows are no longer manufactured for the 95-99 cars. Brake parts look good, too.
Also, proof pic!