PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post

rjk · #**176** 12-20-2003, 11:36 PM

Lynn,

Just a few observations. I've owned 2 560 SL's. NEVER had the experiences you have described. I did my homework before I bought the first and was told by various MB mechanics to stay away from the 380 because it was "under-powered". I test drove both models and tended to agree but that was also probably a result of the gut wrenching torque exhibited by the 560. Anyway, the first major problem I had with the beast was a bad water pump, I can relate with you on costs because the local MB shop wanted over $600 to R&R the thing so I did it myself for under $100. As has been said in earlier posts, vintage cars are best suited to DIY's. Up until it's untimely death (head-on collision in a free-for-all lane), it gave us many trouble free miles and that included extended trips between GA. & NYC. By the way, my wife walked away from the accident that would have hospitalized her had she been in a lesser car.

I didn't hesitate to start looking for a twin to replace the first and found one last December. I have no reason to regret buying this one either. Sorry, I didn't mention having to R&R the antenna mast.

SL's are not meant for the masses; if what you want is mindless econobox transportation, get a VW bug, at least it is still teutonic.