I am thinking about buying an SL320
 

I am thinking about buying a Sl320 any advice on years to look for or stay away from and why would be appreciated. Also anything I should be aware of. Check for hyl. cyl leaks for top. ect

Thanks,
Domenick

The best year was the last year for the USA, 1998.

The hydraulic cylinders are always a possibility. 1995 & later cass are better that the earlier ones.

97 was the last year - 98 was just SL500 and SL600. It's an interesting run - 94 to 97, some changes every year. 94 was the last year of no standard traction contol. I believe 95 got ETS traction control standard, ASR optional. Then 96 got ASR standard (I think), new interior, monocromatic paint, and other cosmetic changes, but still had 722.5 transmission, then 97 got 722.6 transmission. 96 and 97 are not supposed to have wiring harness issue. 95 to 97 are OBDII diagnostics. Being a caveman I'd look for a 94 without traction control or a 95 with ETS.

Thanks for your help. I have been told that the 95's had a wiring harness problem. That in 96 MB went to a new material in their wiring harness. Also that MB made a change in the electronics system (ME). I am not sure what that is but I am told that is a good thing.

Not so on ME, the change in 1996 to ME was on V8s only. The sixes had the same 3 coil ignition system from 1994 to 1997. Keep in mind that the wiring harness is a one time issue and the vast majority of 104 motors have already had it replaced, which can be usually be determined by a quick inspection.