560SL data plate question

[zeus2112]

Hello.

I'm looking for a 560 and just drove one that I liked. I took a photo of the data plate since it looked like it had been taken off at some point, so wanted some insight. (please see photo attached)

Any help would be great.

thanks in advance

[rowdie]

The 199 color code looks correct from what I see. 199 Black pearl/blue-black metallic.

I think the 278 interior code is grey leather. That's about all I have.

[Gilly]

They were screwed down like that originally, in case the phillips screws make you think it was removed, I see no reason to belive it was ever tampered with. If you look through the books you should find a blue card, it is a warranty card or is it says "wartungsheft" or something like that, you can compare the chassis number to the metal plate and also to the VIN (which is different than the chassis number), if the VIN plate looks tampered with, THEN it's time to worry.

[zeus2112]

Thanks. The reason I'm concerned is that the screws are supposed to be the same color as the body paint and they are not. Also, the tag itself was not attached on the right side, meaning i could pry it up a bit, as if it had been removed or cracked off the screws.

What do you think?

Thanks

[Gilly]

The whole area in the pic looks like it has been resprayed at some point, possibly front end damage.

[rowdie]

Is the VIN stamped on the upper radiator support? Same piece that tag is attached only on the other side of the hood latch. If not it is a clear indication of replacement and prior damage.

[zeus2112]

Thanks to you both. I'll have to ask the owner to shoot that and send to me. I do know the radiator has been replaced but he didn't say why. Curious now that I've seen this. Ill also ask for the VIN so i can do a car fax

Thx

[rowdie]

Radiator replacement is not unusual. It has plastic tanks and the connection to the upper hose breaks. I will try to remember to post a pic of my ' 86 560SL upper cross member tomorrow.

[meltedpanda]

soemtimes they are removed for paint or repair. You should have a VIN plate on drivers door jam?

[zeus2112]

Thanks. Ill try to have him photograph the VIN plate. I'm suspect because of the screw color and because this tag seems broken, meaning it comes up off the frame on the right side when i tried to lift it. Just want to make sure it wasn't in a collision

Thx!

[rowdie]

1986 560SL. Same 199 color code. (Needs Cleaning)

[zeus2112]

Thanks Rowdie, that doesnt look like the one i posted, looks much cleaner and not tampered with.

thanks for sharing