85 500sel
 

Hi,
I am going to look at one of these. Has 88K on it and is supposed to be in very good shape. It is at a dealer of moderately good reputation. Can anyone tell me some critical questions I should ask about the car, what I should look for as far as known problem areas. The asking price is just under $9000.00 and I'd be looking to use it a fair amount in good weather. I've got some mechanical skills and own two W123's (diesels) already.
Any pointers greatly appreciated.

I have a 1991 560 SEL with only 104800 miles and I would be more than glad to sell it for $7000. In other words, $9000 for a 85 500 sel is waaaaaaay too much. Or you mean $900.

Ironically, I was also considering one of these cars. I agree with Bigbenz- $9000 seems way too steep. I think the 85' 500SEL I was considering is also too steep at the $5200 asking price. It too is in VGC and is equipped with the optional driver airbag. I have recently started considering it again, but not at $5200. I have been thinking of offering them $3000 for it, but I have also recently found a 93' 300E I am considering. The dealer with the 1985 500SEL is the same place that wants $12,000 for a 92' BMW 735i with 80K- which is also too steep!

To give some info- I have heard that timing chain replacement is critical and can be costly. $1000 or more? From what I have been able to understand, these cars are virtually bulletproof. Electrical can be a concern, but basically nothing of major concerns.


Good luck!

See if it's a Euro (4 wheel hydropneumatic suspension is a give away among a bunch of other things)

Another member here had one, and to this day, is still glad he no longer has it.

In my opinion, $9k for an '85 is a bit rich. I will sell you my '88 420SEL for less than half (it has 137k miles) :D

-Larry


PS: You don't get alot of ponies with that 500...you get more with the 420 ;)