Thanks again Rich. I had been wanting to consider the 300SDL, but have hesitated for the reason you mentioned- I had heard about the overheating problem on these, so I have tried to steer clear. That is a good idea about the bumper switching. I also did not know that the EURO models started out in first, rather than second. I am wondering, do the "euro" cars have MPH speedometers from the factory, or is this something that often gets changed? I am wondering, because I have noticed that on other Euro models in the past, that they have MPH speedometers, rather than KPH. I was thinking that all European cars had KPH, but I may be wrong. Perhaps it varies from country to country, just like it does here in North America?
I took another look at the 500SEL tonight - mainly to get the VIN # to get it run by the person here offering the reports- and while it is a nice car, I am really convinced that $5500- or even $4500 is too much. It has a mis-aligned trunk panel- not sure why), it also has a small dent on the lower part of the "C" pillar. I took a look at the undercarriage (with a flashlight since it was dark out) and there is some seepage coming from the rear differential and there is a hose by there (not connected to anything) that has some residue on the end of it. It looks like some sort of a "vent" hose. I also looked under the front- and there is some very light seepage around the oil pan- no drips and it is mainly just around the gasket. It is really not even wet, but dark looking where it looks like some has seeped out over the years and dirt has stuck to it. Also- just up from the oil pan- I can see some seepage from somewhere on up from the side of the oil pan on the driver side. One of the best things about this car is that it is 100% rust free and the interior is excellent throughout. Still, for $5500, I think it could be better. I have found another 85' 500SEL in Georgia for $4000 and it seems to be in a bit better shape from what I can tell in the photos, but photos can often make something look better than it is....
I still think I am going to try to go on Sunday and look at the 1987 420SEL. Those seem to be good Mercedes cars.
Thanks again.
Quote:
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Originally Posted by braverichard
You're very much welcome. 
If you really want the longer wheelbase 126, then get yourself a neat 300SDL (1986 - 1988 I believe). The 300SDL has the longer wheelbase, and is even much more efficient and powerful and refined than the 300SDs. The only problem with the 300SDLs is that they have an aluminum head that is prone to cracking if overheated. But provided you never overheat it, you'll really enjoy owning one. Of course I am typing what people who have owned it told me as I have never owned one.
If you prefer the US bumpers, then just find a Euro Spec car and purchase used US bumpers from a junk yard and put them on. When it comes to the gasoline powered cars, the Euro Spec cars always have more power due to different compression ratios, less restrictive emissions requirements, etc. Also, the Euro transmissions start in 1st gear unlike the US transmissions which have to be "floored" in order to initiate the kickdown switch so the transmission can start in 1st gear instead of 2nd. And the Euro cars give you all that more power with just about a 1mpg sacrifice in fuel efficiency versus the US cars. |
02-03-2005, 09:08 PM
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