I just bought a no recored 300SDL that needs a little work. I got lucky and ended up with a pretty good car. I paid $2500 for it and have another $1k in it. I will probably have another $4k in it when everything is said and done. Thats $7500 for a near perfect car that I will know like the back of my hand, plus it's a lot of fun and a good way to spend time with my father. But in saying that my next MB will be like the Red SDL. I would pay the premium and drive it and enjoy, unless you want a project. One quick check is to pop the oil cap off when the car is running. Do this before you even pay for a PPI if there is no blow-by than I would fell better about purchaseing a no recored car. Also double what you think you will spend, to bring either car up to your specs, just a general guideline that seems to have some truth to it. Great car though you will enjoy your 100 mile commute with one of these.

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1999 SL500
1969 280SE
2023 Ram 1500
2007 Tiara 3200