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I am shopping around for a W126, and would appreciate a quick summary of the pros and cons of each of the following models.
560SEL I know this is the top of the line, but I understand that it is very complicated and there are therefore a lot of things that can go wrong. On the other hand, I love creature comforts, and I think this is the only model with reclining rear seats. A Canadian dealer is advertising an 1988 560SEL, 143K km, $6K CDN. This seems almost too good to be true. 420SEL I have read that this is the next best thing to the 560SEL, but somewhat less complicated and somewhat more fuel efficient. I have noticed that the price difference between the 560SEL and 420SEL is negligible in the local market. 300SEL I have heard great things about MB 6 cylinder gas engines, but I wonder whether this model is underpowered. 300SDL I have heard great things about MB diesel engines, but I wonder whether this model is underpowered as well. I have never owned a diesel. I live in Toronto, so I need an engine that performs well during cold winters, which might rule out the diesel. I will do most of my driving on the highway, likely at cruising speeds as you can usually sail along at 130 km/h on Canadian highways without police interference. Gas is back up to $1.00 a liter in Canada, even though we have more oil (in the tar sands) than Saudi Arabia. This is frustrating, but not a major problem for me, as I would likely drive no more than 16K km a year. I like creature comforts, but that is likely not a major differentiator, as all the models above are very well equipped. I have an above average theoretical knowledge of engine technology, but don't have a lot of practical maintenance skills. I am a quick study though. My current car is a 1994 Cadillac Deville Concours, which I purchased about four years ago. It is the most reliable car I have ever driven, but I am looking for a second car with more character. I don't mind spending up to $3,000 a year on routine and not-so-routine maintenance. Cheers, Jason |
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