I am putting out feelers for a potential purchase. I will have some extra money in a couple of months and want to see what my options are. I want to buy a Mercedes W111 fintail 4 door sedan.

A 1968 model is preferred, but the newer the year the better (unless earlier years were less prone to rust). I definitely want to stay away from the pre-1963 models.

It must have a sunroof. The body should be in good condition and not rusty. Having the body color be black or brown is almost a requirement. I love two tone brown interiors. A European model is preferred. I like bumper overriders.

A factory tow hitch would be nice. Factory air conditioning would also be a plus. I'd love a 300SE/L with a good body but no drivetrain or axles because I have my own running gear to use on it. I'd love a station wagon even more but I know I am not going to find one in my price bracket.

Condition of the engine/drivetrain/exhaust/mechanicals does not matter at all.

Okay, my plan is to install my rebuilt front suspension and turbo diesel engine from my rusty 230S and a rear axle from a W108 280SE 4.5 to make a turbo diesel fintail. I already have everything figured out and just need a decent body for the parts. I discovered my 1967 230S is very structurally rusty.

Remember, in my area fintails are plentiful and cheap. I am looking for a particular type of fintail, though. I bought a 220SE with sunroof recently for $300 but it is a 1960 model and has 4 wheel drums, etc. that I don't care for.

I do already have my eye on a car that is for sale, but at $3,000 it is unrealistic for me to spend that much. I'm thinking I want to pay $1,500 for a car that perfectly matches my want list and is in decent condition. Yes, I want the body to be in good condition, but the mechanical condition means nothing to me, so one with a blown engine and worn out drive train would be a good candidate.

I am in Tacoma, WA, USA, so one in the Northwest or at least on the west coast would be convenient. Let me know what you have. I am just trying to get some feelers so I know what my options are. I also MIGHT be willing to sell/trade my daily driver 1979 300SD for the right car. Let's talk.

Scott