Difference btw 90-94 SL's

[300sdlguy]

I am looking at w129's as a gift for my mother. A friend of mine bought a 91 500SL in 1998 on the advice of his Mercedes mechanic in LA. The mechanic told that the 1990-91 were equipped with less complex computer and/or engine management systems, thus easier for independents to work on. I ask because, my mother lives in a rural area and the closest Mercedes dealership is 100 miles away. I have found a flawless 91 300SL with 40,000 miles, but it's for sale at a premium price. I just want to make sure it's true that staying below a 91 year model is a good idea, otherwise I will look at newer models in the same price range.

Thanks for any advice.

[Roncallo]

I belive it's 92 to 95 that also had the wiring issues. So 90 and 91 are probably a good bet.

There were no other significant changes until 96 when they went to a 5 speed trans in the SL500. Generally speaking I think the 96 and up are the best years.

John Roncallo

[300sdlguy]

Thanks, good to know as I have found a White 1996 SL320 with the same mileage and price as the Imperial Red 91 300SL, The red if the more favored color, so I wanted to see if there were deciding factors either way.

[lynns]

Chris,
93-95 had the engine wiring harness issue.
90-92 are good cars but please make sure that on any R129 that you check out the soft top hydraulics by raising and lowering the top multiple times and asking if any of the hydraulic cylinder seals have been repaired.

IMHO, I would go for a low mileage 99-02 Sport model with a SL2 option package. Prices are less than $30K for a $90K car with a 5 speed trans and you shouldn't have ANY concerns. Here are a couple of beauties http://www.benzworld.org/forums/2571835-post7.html that I have no interest in. Just passing the word.

But if $30K is more than you had in mind I would like to suggest a 86-89 R107 classic. But, check the center A/C vents to make sure they work. I have never seen a Mother that didn't love the R107. Please see http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1989-MERCEDES-BENZ-560SL-NEW-TOP-NEW-A-C_W0QQitemZ280159180005QQihZ018QQcategoryZ6338QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem that I have no interest in. Just passing the word.

[bobterry99]

Originally Posted by 300sdlguy

The mechanic told that the 1990-91 were equipped with less complex computer and/or engine management systems, thus easier for independents to work on.

Untrue, though the '96 and later cars require a Mercedes-specific scanner for code reading. I would guess that all Mercedes shops have one.

[Doctor2687]

I purchased a 1991 R129 last year, and have been very pleased. One thing that I would highly suggest is that you get a pre purchase inspection on a car of this age.
I bought mine from a MB dealer, but a pre purchase inspection elsewhere would have some a chunk of money for me in repairs.
Wiring problems started in 1992.
I would stay away from the R107's unless your Mother is a huge classic car fan. The R129's where a huge leap forward in technology, and comfort.

Matt