90-01 SL (R129) typical rust points?

[97 SL320]

Does anyone know the typical rust points on a R129 SL? ( or maybe the chassis this was based on ( R 124 / R 126? )

I'm looking for a parts car that will eventually become a road race track day car and want to avoid a really rusty car. ( 6 or 8 cyl, shredded interior, electrical system problems, non structural body damage OK if you know of a car. )

The bottom half of the outer body is covered with plastic parts so seeing rust would be difficult. ( The area below the body line, this is where the early cars were two tone. )

Under seal on these cars looks like rubber that allows the metal to rust from above leaving what looks like a solid car until you give it a push.

One car I was looking at as a driver had severe seam rust in the passenger door jamb / quarter panel. This was rusting from the fender well out despite the owner stating it was just a little scratch that was let go.

Thanks

[Will_w202]

From what I've heard, the lower door sill area is the only rust point. If you wash the car, and open the door days later, you will see water still in there. If you bother to wipe the doorsills down after a wash or rain, it isn't a problem. Good luck finding a junker 129; from what I understand they are rare in the boneyards, and if you see one, it will get snapped up pronto

BTW, heavy chassis for a track car!

[97 SL320]

Thanks for the info.

Yes the car is heavy at ~ 4,100 LB , but alot of that is roll bar / convert top / hyd pump / seats / interior / dash. I should be able to lose 500 lb easy even after adding a roll cage. 700 lb might even be possible. The car will be very bare inside retaining just enough to be street legal.

If I really want to run a light car, I'll dig out my Formula Ford ( 1,100 LB , 110 HP )

[Will_w202]

Keep us posted on the project once you find a car. I cant imagine how fast an m119 SL would be after shedding 700lbs!

[97 SL320]

Will do.

I'm still torn on what motor to use. The 6 ( 3.0 M103 / 3.2 M104 ) would be cheap to keep going since that motor is common in lesser sedans. The V8 M119 would be fun until it breaks. I'll probably use what ever is in the car for as long as it runs.

A alternate solution would be to use Dodge Challenger V8 since these came against the Mercedes NAG1 / 722.6 trans making conversion easier. But, I'm not sure these cars have the tuning following like a late Camaro / Corvette LSx motor.

[Will_w202]

The m119s don't typically break. They're durability is legendary, just need proper and regular maintenance. You're talking the difference between 217hp and 322hp on a 90-92, plus mountains of torque