1986 Mercedes Benz 190E 2.3 16v Is it normal for the engine to sound tappety?

The 190E 2.3 16v engine is known for its distinctive "tappety" sound, which is caused by the mechanical lifters used in the valvetrain. These lifters are designed to allow for a small amount of clearance between the camshaft and the valves, which produces the characteristic ticking or tapping noise. While this noise is normal and does not necessarily indicate a problem, it is important to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to rule out any other potential issues, such as excessive wear or damage to the valvetrain components.