Hi,

I would like to know how much it's worth for a decent US version 16v these days. I came across the Kelly Blue Book. The value of 16v is very low around $4500 for 100k miles, automatic tranny one even cheaper. I have had a 86 US 5-sp 16v but sold it couple years ago for $7k with tons of AMG upgrades, rebuilt engine and most mechanical components. Recently, I saw one 86 US 5-sp version for $6.5k on ebay last week. Sadly, it was like way too cheap for this Cosworth Beast. How much do you guys think 16v's worth? I have been thinking about getting one again.

can't say about prices I'm not in the US I've got an 86 Euro. I think they're good value right now... I feel they're going to be real classics soon. They were quite a change of vision at the time for DB

I just bought a 97 C36 and I'm REALLY hoping I don't miss the 16v too much.. haven't gotten rid of it just yet as I gotta prep it for sale. It doesn't have the power of a lot of cars around these days but once it gets going on the open road it's has very satisfying dynamics (maybe not in the steering dpt. tho)

Funny how you're thinking of getting a model you used to own... I owned a BMW 2002tii for years. Have always toyed with getting another... they're just so "chuckable"

I think that you can get a US 16V in good shape for $7-8k. The 16V's that you see on E-bay usually aren't kept up that well, hence their lower selling point. Of course there are some exceptions, but then you really need to look into the condition of the car yourself.

Good Luck with your search,
Giancarlo

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PAST MB's: 2006 E55 AMG | 1986 190E 2.3-16

What do you guys think about automatic tranny? Would you choose "grey market" 5-sp or US version auto tranny? I come across "grey market" 5-sp not full leather interior for $3k but need TLC such as rear shocks, window regulators, tranny and AC rebuilt as well as valve job soon; US version auto tranny for $6.5k also need TLC but have done valve job. Any suggestion?

1 - the 16V, like the 500E/E500, is a SPECIALTY CAR. no scheme exists for determining what these cars are worth. they're as close an example to pure economic principles as i've ever come across.

specialty cars are sold in so few numbers or are so special that the "value" of the car is determined on a case by case basis. it depends on how much you're willing to pay/accept for the car. that being said, the best way to get an idea for the current trends in the prices of these cars is: look on ebay and try and find some in your area to compare too.

BUT, as giancarlo (i think) said, the ones on ebay tend to be pretty beat up.

2 - as you probably know, grey market cars are officially not acknowledged by MBUSA. this can make it a little difficult to get dealership assistance. if you have a source for OEM parts, no worries.

3- don't bother with the automatic tranny. if you get that it'll be much like being not being disabled but being forced to wear leg braces.

given the choice, i'd go with the euro 5-spd over the north american automatic. i have my sources within the local dealerships and in germany for parts and i do most of the work on the car myself.

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'94 W124.036 249/040 leder; 8.25x17 EvoIIs
'93 W124.036 199/040 leder; 8.25x17 EvoIIs, up in flames...LITERALLY!
'93 W124.036 481/040 leder; euro delivery; 8.25x17 EvoIIs
'88 R107.048 441/409 leder; Euro lights
'87 W201.034 199/040 leder; Euro lights; EvoII brakes; 8x16 EvoIs - soon: 500E rear brakes
'70 R113.044 050/526; factory alloys; Euro lights

Don't complain about the low prices. Find the best example you can find and buy it.

Even if you over pay, the depreciation over 3 to 5 years will be less than any new car you can buy.

Buy it, drive it, enjoy it!

Lastly, don't buy a 16V or any car with the idea that it will be a classic and therefore appreciate in value. Put your money in a real investment. Buy a car because you like it.

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Glen Tokuhara
Beauty & the Beast and the wagon that could!

16v are real cheap right now. Watch the grey market, you need to tune them before every inspection (because they originally did not come with an oxygen sensor, so oyu have to connect it every time you inspect it and then disconnect it after...the diagnostics are different, etc.) Don't worry about TLC, just get a good engine as engine parts are rare while window regulators, shocks, etc. are common. I paid around $5000 for an 87 with 130,000 miles, excellent body, interior, engine (I had it compression tested first). Needs rear shocks, one window regulator, and tires...maybe a tune up soon. AC needs a charge too. But I did it because the car itself was solid. It took me a while to find the one I wanted (found one that was good but the compression test was horrible) but cheap good ones are out there and dont be scared of them.

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1985 190E 2.3-16 Euro