advice on buying 1980's SL

[Lexxani]

107->any SL built between 1972-1989.

[POS]

Switchgear is a generic name for the turn stalks, the dash switches, the air con buttons, anything and everything. The reason why a 1989 is better than a 1983 is not only because the engine and suspension was better in later models, but also because it's only 20 years old rather than 27 - age does matter.

As for the two cars that were described, both of them sound like expensive dogs. It's a buyer's market; you should be able to get a very good SL for $12000 - not one that has sunburn issues, non-working AC, and still needs more crap.

No matter what car you buy and how good it looks, still expect to pay $1500-$2000 to get the car up to par (fluids, steering components, bushings, etc.). BE PATIENT.

[hollyg]

[quote=POS;2125768]The reason why a 1989 is better than a 1983 is not only because the engine and suspension was better in later models, but also because it's only 20 years old rather than 27 - age does matter.

Thanks for the education on switchgear. I've only looked at 1986's so far--mainly because that's what I've found near where I live. If I focus on the 2nd-half of the 1980's (1986-9), should I be indifferent between the years? Or is there differences each year: 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989? Are there any special models in there?

I will take your advice and be patient. Keep driving what I come across, if only for perspective and so I'll know the right one when I see it.

Do you know of any website that shows details of the SL models each year--what was made? (engine, std equip, colors..)

Thanks,
Holly

[London380sl]

Try this link out. It will give some good basic information, including that "infamous" Road & Track Article written in 1994 which is good primer on the differences in the years. Just remember that it was written in 1994 so some of the information, such as pricing, is now dated.
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There are also some good links on web site.
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http://northernresource.com/mercedes/107.htm
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Although the 560 sl is the best car don't rule out the 380sl especially the 1984 & 85 models. They have double row chain and offer comparable performance to the 450sl. In addition they run on regular gas and get fairly decent gas mileage. Personally I find they have more than enough pep around town.
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I'd pass on the two cars you've described. The first one is defintely overpriced and the second one, with its constantly rough idle history, would worry me. Your posts don't indicate where you live but if you're in Florida there should be tons of them down there.
Check this link out. Although specifically written for the 560SL it will give you a good idea on what to look at for all on all W107's and how to weed out the undesirable one. Just make sure if you find a car you like you have it inspected by a mechanic.

http://www.oursl.com/NewsLetter/NL0508/NL0508-bootcamp.htm

[JeffreyNMemphis]

Hello Holly,

I am late getting to this discussion, as it is a month since the last posting. I was looking for an SL and considering the differences between the early 450sl and the 380sl models, which drew me into this thread.

Always being one to add my $.02, so that together we have a buck...

You might consider joining MBCA. The star magazine alone is worth the $40.00. You might hear about a member selling a nice car, and they tend to take pride and care for their cars like family members.

A bit of an unexpected source for car information is wikipedia.org. I use it for FACTS like historic information, weight, horsepower, production numbers etc. I come here for personal opinions and experience!

Let us know how your search is coming. And if you buy one, come back and show us a picture! We love pictures...

[daw_two]

Holly --- any luck finding what you want?
Jeffrey --- are you looking to buy?
Me --- just curious.


Well, a 1983 380SL just appeared on Craigslist for $3500 and being the Mercedes fanatic that I am......well, I had to do a forum search on buying an SL.

I haven't seen this particular car in person but added it to my list of things to see next week....work allowing.

[Jack M]

Hi Holly, Where you live is a factor on what you buy. Will you be able to keep it garaged?
Where will you store the hardtop?. When you do an ebay search in motors do 560SL and 560 SL Read all of the descriptions and look at the photos. If any of them is near you check it out. Also if you can find a Mercedes mechanic you might get a lead on one that a customer may want to sell and he should have some service records on hand. Their are a good number that go on sale and you neet to have knowledge to ferret out the great from the average. Take your time and you will be happy. All of the advice before mine is important too. remember you want to be driving it, not having your son pick you up at the mechanic.

Best of luck, Jack M. You may have gotten another reply from me. it just kind of flew away and I can't find it.

[Jack M]

Oh! One other thing After you look at the cars for sale on ebay, go over the the left hand column and select completed auctions. There you will see what they actually sold for.

Craig's list is good for local items, and making test drives. We all want you to make a good choice. Jack M.

[popscat]

i have a 77 450sl with the 107 chassis so my question is it seems like the were made quite early in the line. if you want a big mercedes 380se i have one in emaculate condition 52000 org miles excellent condition in and out garage kept if you want i can get pics. car is located in roanoke va.