Need selection resources

I am considering buying a SL series car just for casual cruising on nice days and tinkering. I don't see a lot of info on them on the tech forum, so really don't know much about the pro's and con's of any given model. What I would like are recommendations for publications that compare/describe the various models and differences between each model year, paint colors, etc.

Just from looking in the classifieds and Hack's photo page, I have a model in mind (280SL), but have no idea what gremlins may or may not plague any given model.

Books are preferred over websites, but any info would be greatly appreciated.

At this time, please do not post any car offers, since I have two spare cars to sell first (not MB's), and the research is half the fun!

Many Thanx in advance and I look forward to info on this forum.

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Deezel
87 300TDT
150,000 miles

[Bill Wood]

Don't forget to do a search on all forums for "280SL".
There are about 35 threads that mention the 280SL...might be some useful info.

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Bill Wood - Webmaster
MercedesShop.com, LLC

[Jim Villers]

SL's are fun cars. I have a 190SL and a 230SL five-speed. It really depends on what you want the car for and how you like to drive. I find my 190SL much better for club events, parades and that sort of stuff. The 190SL Group is active and sponsors events that are worth attending. The 230SL is more like an "regular" car. I use mine almost like a driver. As for recomendations, if you are looking at W113's, seriously look for a 5-speed over the normal 4-speed. Hard to find and costs a little more but the extra gear adds lot of compfort as your cruse down the Interstate "at speed". Air conditioning is also desireable; not available in the 190SL but available in the W113 as a "dealer installed option" (it is still available from suppliers).

As for newer SL's, I must demurr.

Jim Villers

[Arthur Dalton]

quote:

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Originally posted by Webmaster:
Don't forget to do a search on all forums for "280SL".
There are about 35 threads that mention the 280SL...might be some useful info.

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Keep in mind that there are two different 280SL chassis. The 113 "Pagoda" '63-71
vintage , followed by the 107 chassis.

Thanx for the hints! 190SL's are out of my price range, I'm a working stiff with two little kids that I hope will go to college. My very prelim searches show many in the 8-12K range, there is quite a variety of offerings in the 280 and 380 versions. The earliar 280's are definitely harder to find. I have not been out to inspect any of these either! I don't fear most mechanical tasks, so sweat equity is not a problem. Paint must appear presentable from 30-40 feet and the body must be in very good condition (No dents other than parking lot door dings and no or very very minimal rust). A paint job in a year or two is in the budget.

Yes, I am aware of the two different body stules on the 280SL, I want the earliar W113 "Pagoda", using only curb appeal as the only guide. The transmission data was good, but unfortunately, my wife is strictly an "Automatic" driver, and I do like to be chauffered occassionally (sometimes it's not an option, if you know what I mean)! How do these trannys hold up?

Still need good quality reading material for the night stand! Any suggestions?

Thanx again for all the advice!


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Deezel
87 300TDT
150,000 miles