Despite it having 268K - I still love to drive my 85' 380SE - for the entire year I have owned it. It still seems like such a good car - it has some problems though that needs to be addressed. I thought I would keep this car for many years (at least until it died), but I am getting a new truck and my driveway is packed. NO ROOM. My other three cars are classics, that I will never part with- so if one goes, it will be the MB. I am sure the car is not worth alot in the marketplace, but I would like to see it go to a good home - to someone that will restore it. I am wondering if someone would tell me a good asking price for it locally.
As mentioned, it is a 85' 380SE. It has 268K. Most everything works save for the A/C, as it does not get cold. The only other things I can think of is cruise control, auxillary fan. Also, the rear driver window motor works, but its like the window is off of the track. It will go down though, if you press it down with your hands. Also- all air from the HVAC comes out of the defrost/dash vents- which is a common problem? It has not been that big of a deal to me though. Cassette player original and inoperable. Engine runs good, but is has an occasional stalling problem when it warms up.... also- I have NO idea when the timing chain was replaced, so that would be a very soon must. Also- it has some lifter chatter/peck..... I have been told that the passenger side camshaft may be worn causing this. It has not gotten any worse since I have owned it. There is NO oil leakage anywhere and it stays full between the 3K changes. Transmission shifts like a Mercedes should. Firm shifts when cold, but not as firm when it warms up, but there is no slippage/flaring. Rear brake pads need replaced- have new pads, but not installed yet. Oh, it has the ABS option.... sometimes the "anti-lock" light will illuminate.
NO rust, save for some on the upper side of the trunk, (inside) below the rear window, where the antenna seal had been leaking.... I have replaced that though- no leak there now. Also, a small bubble starting near the rear wheel well (in a central area - not near a seam - so a very easy repair)- but that is all. Interior is still very good - has the dark blue MB-Tex which seems to never wear out. Dash has some cracks I assume.... I do not know, because it has a custom cover on it that was in place when I bought it. It is silver - decent paint on sides, but dead paint on top sides. I am guessing I could probably get more parting it out, but I would rather see someone buy it, do some maintainence on it and drive it for 10-15+ more years.
So, what would a good starting price for this car be? Or... should I jyst keep it? Park it at grandpa's and let it set and ruin? I do not want to pay insurance on 4 cars.
11-07-2006, 01:20 AM
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