Differences in 86-89 560SL ???

[mkrmh]

I am new to this forum, so please be patient. I used to own a 1989 560SL, loved it, but got rid of it. I now want to purchase another 560, and there appear to be little differences in the 4 years they were produced; ie 1986-89. Visible differences appear to only be the position of the 3rd high rear brake light. It appears they went to a more sleek 3rd light in the 88-89 models.
I am looking at a 1986 now on ebay, and I am curious if other differences exist between 560 models in this 4-year time frame of the 560's.
Are they the same mechanically? Is the 560 engine a cast iron engine with cast iron heads? I have been told to avoid the aluminum engines, as they can be very troublesome. What other things should I be looking for in the 560 before I purchase one? Thanks in advance for your input.
Bob

[Alkraut]

The trunk-mounted stop light was changed for 88-89, as you observed. I am not aware of any other changes, except for some possible color combinations.

While some parts of the 560 engine are aluminum, they are well-engineered and not troublesome. Of course it is important that the cooling system and lubrication system are maintained. Severe overheating could cause problems. Both of these systems are very good, and not prone to failure. Proper torques are also important for any repair or maintenence.

[JimFreeh]

I've apocryphal rumors that the cams in the 89 and up 560 engines were better material.

Jim

[JPMOSE]

The standard Becker radio in the '88 and '89 models had a Dolby B and C button (minor change). Most of the changes related to emissions. Look at the write-up that I provided on the MBCA forum:

http://mbca.cartama.net/showthread.php?t=18450

[rugby2]

seems kelly blue book said 86 had more hp. was this a misprint/

[David Langsam]

Side view mirrors were heated on 89's and some 88's.

[t walgamuth]

Everything from the 380 on is an all aluminum block. The aluminum blocks are not a problem that I know of. I do not know of the specific differences between an 86 and 89 but would suspect they are minor. I had an 84 500sec and it was a very very nice low maintenance car. I found it to be as reliable and perhaps even cheaper to maintain than the veneralbe 616 617 diesels.

It was a lot quicker but used more fuel. Mine took RUG so that was an advantage.

Tom W

[JPMOSE]

Side view mirrors were heated from '86 forward on the 560SL. Later years didn't add anything! Only small changes (and very few) that may have refined operation and typically related to emissions.