Less repair costs in general: 450 SE/SEL/6.9 vs. 450/500 SLC's? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Redlineit · #1 10-26-2010, 09:33 PM

Looking to buy someone elses well maintained example of a '73-'80 450 SE/SEL/6.9 or a '72-'81 SLC.

Don't have a preference of one over the other.

Not sure if it makes a noticeable difference 29 to 39 years later, but still would like opinions on what model is more reliable if the condition of all the vehicles is equal.

Also, when they do need repairs, which is most costly? Guess here is the 6.9's than the SLC's.

Thanks.

alabbasi · #2 10-26-2010, 09:58 PM

Skip, no offence but if you're asking this kind of question then you should not be buying either, or you just need to go ahead and buy one, then roll up your sleeves and get cracking.

I suggest that you do some reading on the MBCA.org forum, this forum and the M-100 forum. The pros and cons of each model has been talked to death.

cth350 · #3 10-26-2010, 10:53 PM

cost depends on your level of skill. If you're paying somebody else to do the work, then a mercedes is a mercedes, it's going to cost you something.

If you're rolling up your sleeves and being the mechanic, the 500slc specific parts will be scarce and the 6.9 parts will be scarce. Both will be expensive, but obviously not the labor.

Thx -CTH

Tomguy · #4 10-26-2010, 11:03 PM

A 450SE, SEL, or 560SEC would be the cheapest since the engines are fairly plentiful & used in other models.
500's are more rare.

Suspension bits on the 6.9 as well as engine parts are 6.9 specific. $$.

Redlineit · #5 10-26-2010, 11:38 PM

Good points guys about the scarcity and price of the 500 SLC and 6.9 parts.

Since I'm much more likely to buy a 450 SLC or 450 SE/SEL, I'm interested in opinions on whether the systems (other than the 4.5) on the SLC's are noticeably more costly to maintain than the SE/SEL's.

Emmerich · #6 10-26-2010, 11:43 PM

The SLC is the worst body for a MB, very unpopular too (especially a 380), the 116 is way better. Same era stuff though, ACC issues, possible rust. I had a 6.9, never had trouble with the motor, changed the struts when they were leaking since I had another pair and the occasional nitrogen sphere.

I would get a SL before a SLC, and I know I will have another 6.9 someday.

Redlineit · #7 10-27-2010, 12:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Emmerich

The SLC is the worst body for a MB, very unpopular too (especially a 380), the 116 is way better. Same era stuff though, ACC issues, possible rust. I had a 6.9, never had trouble with the motor, changed the struts when they were leaking since I had another pair and the occasional nitrogen sphere.

I would get a SL before a SLC, and I know I will have another 6.9 someday.

Thanks Fred for the info.

Yes, rust is something I know I'll really have to look for.

Finding a car with manual air is limiting of course but a certainly a preference.

I did know about the 380 SLC's and was not considering them. I probably should drive a SL for comparison sake.

audihenry · #8 10-27-2010, 02:21 AM

Why are SLCs unpopular? They look so beautiful in the flesh. I'm not arguing, just wondering.

t walgamuth · #9 10-27-2010, 06:02 AM

Not every one thinks they are good looking. I put them into the same class as the high roof XKE 2+2. The rear seats are useless for anything except a small child or a dog.

I have daydreams of converting one of them into a small pocket pickup truck!

Redlineit · #10 10-27-2010, 09:46 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by audihenry

Why are SLCs unpopular? They look so beautiful in the flesh. I'm not arguing, just wondering.

IIRC this is an '80.

Here's some more good pics of a SLC...

http://www.autosportdesigns.com/Sales/Salesphotos.aspx?ID=1968

bwostosh · #11 10-27-2010, 09:52 PM

Nice profile picture!
Perfect classic styling.

450SlC's are great cars, very rigid structure, 4" longer wheel base, when tight is a great ride, my friend at 6'5" has head room, leg room, and his normal wife can drive it too.
Early versions 73,74 are well built.
Test drive the SL and SLC, they both have their place.

Redlineit · #12 10-27-2010, 10:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bwostosh

Nice profile picture!
Perfect classic styling.

450SlC's are great cars, very rigid structure, 4" longer wheel base, when tight is a great ride, my friend at 6'5" has head room, leg room, and his normal wife can drive it too.
Early versions 73,74 are well built.
Test drive the SL and SLC, they both have their place.

Thanks for the info Brian.

alabbasi · #13 10-28-2010, 12:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bwostosh

Nice profile picture!
Perfect classic styling.

450SlC's are great cars, very rigid structure, 4" longer wheel base, when tight is a great ride, my friend at 6'5" has head room, leg room, and his normal wife can drive it too.
Early versions 73,74 are well built.
Test drive the SL and SLC, they both have their place.

I would have to agree, I have been driving my black 81 500SLC over the past couple of days. It's gotten more action this week then it has all year. I've forgotten how nice this car is.