Was the 86-87 300 SDL a stepchild?
 

Hi Gang,
I am doing more research about the 300 SDL thinking of adding it to my collection. I find that the 560 SEL (the biggest and supposedly most luxurious model) had the seat heaters and foot rest in the rear but I never see that on the 300 SDL...why is that? Was this an option to be added, yet standard on the 560? I love my current diesel and would love the extra room and amenities but am not sure they were available on this car. I know I should get a few responses on this...especially from Turbodiesel!!

Thanks Gentlemen!

The 560SEL had a bunch of stuff standard. Burlwood trim, front lumbar seats, heated seats front and rear and reclining rear seat and a two-tone horn.

With the exception of the burlwood trim and two-tone horn, those options were avaliable on all 126 cars in 86 and 87, including the 300SDL. I have seen a few SDL's fully optioned, but they are extremely rare, I mean, who really needs heated, reclining rear seats? Heated front seats would be nice though.

I beleive the 560SEL had self leveling suspension and a limited slip differential, which were not available on the SDL.

Yes, the 560 SEL did have self leveling suspension and a limited slip differential. I looked at one about a year ago at a used car lot, but it needed more work than the asking price, so I passed on it. I sort of walked away from it when they couldn't even jump start it, and then they told me nothing was wrong. They are such a nice car, but I don't see why people can't live without many of the options. The way I see it, the more electronic gadgets added to a car, the more it costs to repair, and the more it costs future buyers to repair, if neglected.

The 560 was supposed to be a limited model, much like the 450SEL 6.9 from the generation before. In fruition, however, too many were ordered, and they never quite gained the mystique of the rarer cars. The 420 was supposed to be a flagship production model, whereas the 560 a more limited model.....

Re: Was the 86-87 300 SDL a stepchild?
 

This is correct as the others have stated. I have seen very few 300SDLs with the seat warmers..But they do exist.

I recommend you do a search for 300SDL. You will find a treasure chest full of threads to keep you busy for a while...

And, the 300SDL is such a nice car, too!

Decent performance, excellent milage (28 or so on the highway), huge tank, wonderful ride, great handling. Easy enough to pass on heated seats (besides, you can always add them if you want to!)

Peter