Hi,

It's been a while since I have posted. I currently own a 1983 300d. I am looking at some of the different gas models. Of course, I am still keeping the diesel.

I've done a bunch of searches, on 500sel and w126, but it gets a little confusing with the years and their problems specific to year.

Anyway, thoughts on the above car...

Besides maintanance what can could I expect may/can be the major repairs known to this particular year of car. I've read the timing chain, true? What else?

How can I tell the difference between the US model and European.

Any thoughts would be appreciated, thanks in advance!!

Dwayne

the us version will have cats.

i have an 84 500sec, and i have found it to be on a par with the 617 diesels for being easy to keep on the road.

the fi on it is pretty simple and durable and there is no computers. no abs or leveling suspension either.

it will get 19 mpg running 65 and 70 on regular gas.

and it is quick if need be comfy and will cut a corner like a sportscar.

and they have an ac compressor that is miles better than those pitiful things on the 616 617 motors.

tom w

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.

If it were me, and I were forced to get another 126, then I would get a newer one. Either a 420 or a 560. Don't rule out a nice 400E/E420 in your search.

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It is a truism that almost any sect, cult, or religion will legislate its creed into law if it acquires the political power to do so. Robert A. Heinlein


09 Jetta TDI
1985 300D

If the car is in an emission testing state, it will most likely have cats, euro or not. Look for the air pump, lower RH side of engine, hose coming from air cleaner to it. Euro won't have one on it.

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I really gets fun when they all don't run

84 500SL
99 Jeep XJ
93 Jeep YJ
03 Custom Softail

One quick way of telling a Euro between a U.S. model are the bumpers. The U.S. versions have much larger bumpers than the Euro models.

Yes, make sure the timing chains, tensioner, guides and rails have been changed, or prepare spend $$$$ for replacement. If they (any of the mentioned) break, the engine is likely destroyed.

Also, know that window leaks from the rear window/trunk seals/taillight seals, etc., are also well known problems on these cars.

The 85' 500SEL also had standard driverside airbag. This may have also been the case with the 85' 500SEC, but it was optional on the other 85' Mercedes, except for the 300CD, 300D, 300TD and 380SL, all of which it was not available on. ABS was also standard on the 85' 500SEL.

I almost bought a 1985 500SEL. It was beautiful and had 152K miles. I just could not bring myself to pay $5500. for it. I ended up getting my 1985 380SE (same car with a smaller engine/shorter wheelbase) for $4500. less. Not as nice and it has its quirks, but is it good enough for what I want it for.

Good luck!