85 380 vs. 86 560

[luvmy84300sd]

Hey SL Lovers,
I have read all the many threads about the different R107 and it seems that the 1985 380 SL may be a good find. The climate control system is more like the 560, should have a double timing chain from MB factory, and even has the rare heated seat option (something I haven't seen on the 560 ever). So what else am I looking for in major differences? This car has had the cosmetic changes to resemble a 560 (I wouldn't have done it, but somebody sunk the money anyway). Has LOTS of records included, new top, waterpump, brakes, tires, belts, hoses, regular documented oil changes. Basically, it seems too good to be true. I guess I'm basically looking for opinions....I still love the 560 (looks - factory based) and the drop dead horsepower...but what you about you all? For all the owners, give me your recommendations.
Thanks!

[RickM]

I own an 85 380sl and I love the car. I also have realistic view of what the car is. For me it's a pleasurable, classic cruiser...not a race car.

In any case I think the 560 updates are not offensive at all. In fact I'm in the process of doing the wheels, front spoiler and rear springs from the 560....they are functional performance upgrades and not merely cosmetic.

BTW, I'm still looking for a used rear valance (any 107 / '74 - '89) and front spoiler (560 / '86 - '89)....any leads are appreicated.

[BobK]

For used parts, call Bernard at European Connection in Falmouth, Kentucky. 1-859-654-8632. He ships all over the place. He has about 8 acres of MB cars (that's all he does). Tell him Bob up in Covington sent ya. I gotta call him soon about a window motor.

[maheath]

Obviously there's the horsepower difference.

In 1985, driver's airbag was optional for the 380SL, standard in all 560SLs. The 560SL had the front suspension completely redesigned. The braking system was also upgraded. The seats in the 560 were updated to include more side support. The recirculation switch first appeared in the 560SL. Leather seats were standard in the 560SL, not sure about the 380SL. Those are just the differences I can think of.

The point being that with a 380SL and a 560SL in roughly the same condition and in the same ballpark in price, the 560SL is a much better deal.

[luvmy84300sd]

Thanks for the reply Mike. You basically listed all the differences that I'm aware of and I do agree that if the $$s are close the 560 is the much better purchase. I am simply dying to have one and have always heard the 380 is a little more "quirky (for lack of a better term) than the 560. I do like the 560 seats better than those in the 380 and of course the cosmetics are much better, in my opinion. Perhaps I'll hold out once again.
Thanks!

[cbdo]

I agree completely with everything Mike says...BUT: If the power isn't a big issue for you, the overriding issue is to get a car that's as close as possible to completely sorted out. A lot of 107's are summer sunny-day occasional cars, and the reality is that it's very easy to start letting a few things go when you're in that mode. I was guilty of it to some degree on my '73 Mustang, and the PO of my 560SL definitely was. I bought the car in December and have put about $4500 into it since--not unexpected, not unplanned, but still a bit of a PITA to go through.
Bottom line: It's May already, almost June, you've found a truly well-kept car, the sun's out, the air's warm, the birds are singing, life is good--buy the damned thing now and enjoy it! (devilish )