xmas present
 

I'm in the same position as Bobk in that I am also looking for a 560 SL for the better half. We used to have an '86 until she wrecked it so I am familiar with the beast's internals. What I don't know is what the later years offer me. Is it worth looking at an '89 over an '86 (all else being equal)? Why? Any desirable goodies only offered in the later years? Thanks...

For the most part, I would treat any '86-'89 as roughly the same, unless the location of the third brake light matters to you. It moved to the edge of the trunk in '88. What I have noticed is that the '89, being the last model year, commands a higher price than those other years.

It looks like there were some slight changes to the braking system in mid '86, a couple of relays. Probably not significant.