500SEL opinions please

[pj67coll]

I'd like to know the forum members opinion as to the value of a 500SEL in very good condition. Body and interior look excellent and there's no smoke that I can see. But further than that I cant judge. Dont know it's mileage yet. It's just a car I've seen in my apartment complex and I'm toying with the idea of approaching the owner. I really know nothing about their values, strenghts, weaknesses as they've always been way out of my reach. Anybody care to offer some opinions?

- Peter.

[POS]

Good cars, reliable, not worth much. Everyone who chases a big V8 MB w126 goes straight to the 560, and those who don't want the suspension hassles of the 560 go to the 420 - newer is better.

If you're after a good deal but want a big V8, chase the 500SEL.

[Larry Delor]

If it's cheap, I guess it would be ok. I'd prefer a 420 over a 500, especially if it is '88 and newer. (Nicer stitching and better stereo in '88 - more HP with the 420 vs the 500 {201 vs. 184})

The older 126's are starting to show their age a little.

[Tomguy]

Personally, I'd get the 500 - and swap it to euro heads, cams, and exhaust for a huge performance increase. But that's me if I were in your shoes

The 500 gets much better milage than a 3.5 or 4.5 - probably about what your 280S would get. But the US spec ones are not really known for power. They are usually more potent than a 450, and are higher revving engines than 560s but do have less power. It's up to you if you want one! They are fun from what I've heard.

[Larry Delor]

Euro parts from a Oct. '85 on engine, can get you up to 245HP.




Hi Tom!

[t walgamuth]

i have an 84 500sec. very nice car. very dependable and simpler than a diesel to maintian. it does use some gas though. but it is rug, so it isnt that much more expensive than a diesel to drive either.

tom w