This is just kind of a general question - what models of late 70s and 80s MBs would you folks consider as the ones most likely to be in demand, say 15 or 20 years from now, as collectibles?

I am certain the M-100's W109 6.3, W116 6.9 will always have an allure. All the SL's for certain.

Any impeccably maintained car with documented low miles with a pristine body would be worth something 15-20 years from now. How much exactly is anyone's guess

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1974 240D 3.0L 4(M) - 250K -OM617.910 + 300D FW + Rajay turbo power!
1977 6.9 3(A) - 84k

The w126 and the 107.

I think the smog emission laws plus computer systems is going to put the demise on collectable cars. Why hassle with the diagnosis and cost of replacing computer systems and parts, when you can pick up a mechanical operated car which will have lower maintenance costs, old school design and no state laws against modifying.
Lets looks at the 500 or 600 sl, how could you keep that on the road 20 years from now? I think the 116 6.9's or the 107's are the end of the road for the collector, after that its all destined for the junkyard
Leonard

The 1982-85 W123 300CD turbodiesel coupe and 1982-85 W123 300TD wagon.

The 300CD looks great and the wagon is both practical and cool looking. Both are low production, run forever, and great fun to drive!

(I have one of each and intend to keep them forever).

I was thinking about that, too bad there isn't a diesel sl
Now there would be a sight, you could even put one of those 'powered by vegeoil' stickers on it
I can see the diesel coupes being an inexpensive collectable. If I was to venture into any collectable car after about 1970, it would be a diesel coupe.
Has anyone cut the roof of a 300 coupe and made it into a roadster?

yes there has been....someone in LA had one on ebay. I'll see if I can find it....looked decent but I worry about its structural integrity.

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1974 240D 3.0L 4(M) - 250K -OM617.910 + 300D FW + Rajay turbo power!
1977 6.9 3(A) - 84k

I agree with Leenart. Computerized cars have spelled an end to the true driveable collectable. Once the motherboard or any of the modules gives up the ghost, that car is destined to be a static showpiece. Each cars computer program is so specialized that you can't just replace it by going to the auto parts store and twenty years from now no one is going to go through the effort and expense to manufacture a computer module dedicated to one specific car. A simple example: My 98 Volvo needed a replacement ignition switch. Under warrantee, the dealer had to send back to Sweden and have Volvo manufacture the switch to match my cars Vin #. It took 4 weeks! You think they would still do that 30 years from now? Another same car example: The ABS module failed. A replacement cost for this specific model cost $684. I'll just be satisfied with my old 1963 mechanical cabriolet as long as Mercedes Classic can provide the fuel injection parts.

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Gregg:
http://photobucket.com/albums/d142/GBambo/

I cut the top off of one and I was also worried about its structural integrity...I have put about 5,000 miles on southern Illinois roads which are very bad , and it is doing very well so far ...car had no rust ....would still worry about one with rust at joints...I hope to get pictures posted...gene2

'Ain't seen a collectable Benz since '72...

.. and I am a Collector.

I believe there were numerous aftermarket convertible 'conversions' done to the W123 coupes. I'm almost certain that in 1980, while I was there getting parts for my Ponton 180b, that I saw a convertible 300D in a local Mercedes showroom.

I too have serious doubts that most computer-chip cars will still be driveable after 45 years, like my '60 Fintail, but then rust has probably killed off most of the Fintails.

Happy Motoring, Mark

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DrDKW

If someone would email me I can forward pictures of my CDT with no top...Maybe you could post picture for me ...I still do not know how to post pictures ...thanks gene@ussonet.net

I've got it! A 2005 600sl V12........with a Chevy 350 V8. Registering is another matter

Many states don't require emmissions or even safety inspections once a vehicle turns 25 and qualifies for antique tags. If you can hang on to that Chevy-powered 600SL till then....

Happy Motoring, Mark

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DrDKW

Its not a matter of the car hanging on for 25 years, its a matter of me hanging for 25 years!