Well........one thing I have learned dealing with a 560SEL is this. Some parts are priced reasonably but pricing on some parts makes you feel like you have been held up by a New York Central Park mugger! FYI, I recently carefully performed a stem to stern inspection of the 1991 560SEL and nowhere did I find a sign or disclosure that said, "This is the world's least expensive ride". As a matter of fact, it appears that 560SELs are definitely going to cost a few more nickels more to operate than a Ford or a Chevrolet.

However, once I get it out on the highway the pain of all those expenses fades away because a 560 drives and rides like no other car on the planet! For the record, I have experienced sticker shock for parts on this car more times than I care to remember. I do feel your pain. But, look at it this way, you won't be replacing that part for at least ten years, so if you cost the price of the part out over ten years it is still fairly inexpensive. It's a great car and will reward you with many years of smooth safe operation when maintained properly.

It's kinda like a friend of mine who travels to europe on business. One time he brought back a $400 bottle of Scotch. He offered me a drink; once my lips touched the glass I knew I could NEVER go back to the cheap stuff......