Hi
I'm new here, but i was wondering if anyone can help me. I am very tempted to buy a 450 SEL 6.9, and I was wondering if anyone could give me any advice, tips, or if anyone has one what the ownership experience is like. I really appreciate any help, thanx

hi seb
welcome to the most addicting site [for car nuts] on the internet !!

you can go to a great site for 6.9 at http://www.m-100.org/

it also deals with 6.3 and grand 600 mercedes.

also in the upper right section of every page are blue boxes. one of them is for a search feature. click on search and type in 6.9, 6.9 problems, etc and you will find a lot of threads on the subject.

it is a very neat feature.

this is a very helpful and active and friendly site. we don't always agree, however we do agree mercedes benz is one awesome auto!

peter

__________________
*92 400e 124.034, SOLD

*92 300e 124.030, SOLD

This month's issue of Classic Cars (formerly Thoroughbred and Classic Cars) contains a comparison between the 450 SEL 6.9, Rolls Royce Silver Shadow, Jaguar XJ12 and a Cadillac of some description. The test is intended to replicate that conducted by Car magazine in January 1977 in which it concluded that the Jag was the best car ion the world.

The 450 SEL 6.9 is given an extremely positive write up. In particular, the operation of the controls and switch gear is described as being "as new". The build quality is praised but it is suggested that some parts are very expensive. The 6.9 has a unique engine and rear suspension.

The car is also described as being extremely fast.

The model featured in Classic Cars is for sale at a price of £4,995. I have to say that I am thinking of buying it! I would prefer a 500E, though.

Classic Cars is available at most newsagents in the UK (I notice you're from London) including WHSmiths.

__________________
JJ Rodger
2013 G350 Bluetec
1999 SL 500
1993 E300 diesel T
1990 190

I've always lusted after a 6.9, ever since they first arrived on US shores. I remember one of the car rags ran a "fastest sedan" shootour comparison back in, oh, 1977. (Am I that old?) The fastest european sedan was the 6.9, at ~144MPH. The winning American was a Dodge police car with a 440 cubic inch engine, which was only a little behind the Benz.

That said, a 6.9 is not particlularly fast by modern standards. US models ran 0-60 in about 7.5 seconds. A modern E320 can out accelerate a 6.9, though its top speed is limited to 130MPH. That said, there's nothing like big cubes to make big torque - it's an addiction!

Having owned and restored a special 6.9 euro with AMG cams and 3.0 rear end I am happy to pass along my experience: THE GOOD: Best Mercedes I've owned; better than previous 69 6.3 and 71 6.3. Euro model better than American spec; higher speed, pick up, and driveability. Gas consumption good if kept below 3,000 RPM; past that you see the gas gauge empty fast. Mechanical reliability of engine, transmission and rear end top notch. Intoxicating and exhilarating drive. THE BAD: Hydroneumatic suspension needs repairs between 80-150,000 mile range to hydrogen spheres (can be recharged by Citrooen specialist if valves good); struts usually start to leak oil; leveling valves (3) need rebuild; main pump off crankshaft and oil tank valve also leak. Most 6.9's now are neglected so full suspension rebuilt can run up to $$K unlesss you find a low mileage example. Resale value now at the bottom. Euro cars do have rust in floors, rocker panels, rear wheelarches and trunk; expensive to repair. A/C not that good for hot climates. THE UGLY: Without offending Mercedes mechanics, here in the US most Merc mecahnics see 6.9 badge and automatically run up the bill; have friend that was charged $20,000 for a rebuilt engine that cost at best $5,000. Parts prices in Europe may be better. Actually in my case, the 6.9 ownership experience was ruined by the greedy Mercedes mechanics since most parts except engine, transmission, rear and hydro suspension are just common 116 parts. I did discover some good sources for suspension parts (rebuilts) and good prices. Hope my experience helps. Regret to have sold mine so I will get another euro 6.9.