Like Strife said, sl113.org is a great resource. They have very good advice on how to choose a car. I think your choice of an early 230 is a good one, but how early. The 63's and 64's have problems with the soft tops and engines that are hard to fix and they also have some unique parts that are impossible to find.

The basic rule is to find an unrusted car, which shouldn't be too hard in your area. People who are serious about these cars won't even look at one with rust.

Be sure the gaps are even, especiall between the hood and fenders. The hood should latch when dropped from about 18".

The soft top mechanism is expensive to repair, so make sure it goes up and down easily and fits in the well. Watch out for rust around the hatch cover seal. If you want a hardtop, better to buy a car with a good one, as they are expensive and most of the used ones need rehab, which is really expensive.

The injection pumps are another potential trouble spot especially on the 230. The engine should start easily and idle at about 1000 rpm, and come down to 800 or so when warm. You should be able to drive off immediately after a cold start.

Make sure that there aren't any major pieces missing from the interior or body. Again, expensive.

The rest is basic check out for stuff working right. The suspension and brakes are fintail stuff and fairly easy to fix.

Outside of the injection, the engine is uncomplicated. There are no more oversized pistons for the later 230s, so don't buy a smoker.

Seat and door covers and rugs are available. You can fix the heating and ventilation but it is a pain. Dashes can be recovered, but it's a lot of work. Wood is expensive. If you need a new windshield the wood needs to be removed.

They are fun cars, and do better than most on holding their value. I have really enjoyed my '66 230.

__________________
Chuck Taylor
Falls Church VA
'66 200, '66 230SL, '96 SL500. Sold: '81 380SL, '86 300E, '72 250C, '95 C220, 3 '84 280SL's '90 420SEL, '72 280SE, '73 280C, '78 280SE, '70 280SL, '77 450SL, '85 380SL, '87 560SL, '85 380SL, '72 350SL, '96 S500 Coupe