I agree with all of the posts in this thread. I recently bought a 1986 560 SEC and a 1987 560 SL from sellers in New York City and Miami. In both cases I went to check out the cars first and, even though I used to be a foreign car mechanic, I missed a few things. Nothing really serious, though. The toughest problem, as previously mentioned, was the lack of repair and maintenance information. The 560 SEC had good documentation, the 560 SL did not. Bottom line: I probably a little more than I should have for the 560 SEC, but am ahead of the game on the 560 SL. Caveat Emptor prevails.

As far as parts go, I've done very well. Lots of bargains out there.

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M. Sandler

1986 560SEC: 150,000 miles, runs great, but I've got to sell it (too many cars for one man)
1987 560SL: 122,000 miles, used to run poorly, now (thanks to forum), runs great!
1997 GMC Jimmy: Turned out to be a turkey.
1989 T-Bird Super Coupe: 150,000 miles, still runs great. Ford got it right.