Looking at 2 R107s - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

LUVMBDiesels · #1 04-21-2013, 10:23 AM

Hi all,
It is spring and I am looking for a new toy. I am looking at a 1974 450SL and at a 1975 450SL. While I have had a few W126 diesels, I have never had either a gas Mercedes or a R107. My questions are:
What are the differences between the '74 And the '75?
Both have the hard and soft tops and look pretty close in condition...
What are the problem areas I should be aware of when looking at these cars?
How hard are the engines and transmissions to work on?
What are the things I need to be aware of with the v8?
I know that they both have the dreaded servo A/C but I am not that concerned with air conditioning in a convertible. I have had 3 ragtops and never had working A/C in any of them...
How hard are body and trim parts to find?
Any other words of wisdom would be appreciated...

Thanks,

Joe

alabbasi · #2 04-21-2013, 11:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LUVMBDiesels

I know that they both have the dreaded servo A/C but I am not that concerned

No they don't.

LUVMBDiesels · #3 04-21-2013, 12:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by alabbasi

No they don't.

They don't? That is good news!
Any other tips?

alabbasi · #4 04-21-2013, 12:18 PM

Yep, read this

The Encyclopaedia Germanica Volume 107 (aka EGv107) - Benzworld.org - Mercedes-Benz Discussion Forum

LUVMBDiesels · #5 04-21-2013, 12:46 PM

I am looking at this link now... Great stuff

coleyjf · #6 04-27-2013, 02:01 AM

Hi Joe

It all depends whether you want a car to "play with" (often in the garage

) or one to drive around in?

I'd suggest that if it's a reasonably reliable driver you want then you might be better looking at a post 1985/6 "facelift model" as according to many on this forum (I've never owned a pre 86 model) you get rid of a load of the niggles of the earlier R107 and should be left with more time to enjoy the wind blowing through your hair

Just a thought

Jim .

Graham · #7 04-27-2013, 10:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by coleyjf

Hi Joe

It all depends whether you want a car to "play with" (often in the garage

) or one to drive around in?

I'd suggest that if it's a reasonably reliable driver you want then you might be better looking at a post 1985/6 "facelift model" as according to many on this forum (I've never owned a pre 86 model) you get rid of a load of the niggles of the earlier R107 and should be left with more time to enjoy the wind blowing through your hair

Just a thought

Jim .

Yes, but then you could buy a Miata too.

The 74 and 75 107s are both D-Jets. (Early electronic fuel injection). After that MB went back to mechanical fuel injection. the D-Jets were built from 1971 to 1975 and NA versions are 72-75. The 72 and 73 are perhaps better choices. More power and fewer emission devices that can cause problems. Especially avoid the cars with cat converters under the hood (75,76).

The D-Jet system is unique and works well. But not many shops are familiar with it these days, so I would only recommend it for DIYers and those who enjoy searching for parts on-line! Some parts from dealer are very expensive, there are many aftermarket parts available of varying quality and used parts are fairly easy to find and not expensive.