W116 Newbie Q's on a '74 450SE V8
 

I've got a line on a 74 450SE V8 for $500.

This would be my first Mercedes, and I would be getting it to replace my 99 VW Gti, because I'm sick of making car payments and I'm not that bad with a wrench.

So I've got a few questions :-)

1. Anything I should look for? I heard rust was a big issue on these cars?

2. How expensive are parts for these?

3. What type of milege can I expect from the V8?

Thanks guys!

Rust was an issue on these cars. You should put it on a lift and check.

Parts can be reasonable if you buy from aftermarket sources (like this website).

I suspect mileage will be in the 12 - 15 mpg range.

big
 

expensive when new relatively complicated car that although very well built will still be a challange to maintain financially. lots of stuff to take care of on one.

tom w

don't discourage him. wouldn't you rather see him in a benz then a wv? j/k :D
if the car is solid it may not be too bad on the pocket.. depends..

check for rust in sills beliow doors (esp towards the front and around jack poinst) and lift up carpets in the front (ESPECIALLY if it has a sunroof!); sunroof drains down towards footwell (LHS) and often the floors in these are rusted thru

Mine came from Texas so no rust for me.:D

Most parts don't seem any more expensive my '74 F250, except the climate control which your car may not have. There are a ton of used cars out there, Ebay always has stuff for them.

I got 16+ MPG on my trip from Dallas to Seattle with speeds anywhere from 65 to 80.

Michael

I'm going to try and take a better look at the car tonight. Life has been busy so I havn't had much of a chance just yet.

Rust isn't normally an issue here (idaho) but I'll check into it.

And from the sound of it parts aren't terribly expensive. But I'm coming from a 99 VW so I'm used to pricey parts.

that' the spirit harbinger! :thumbsup: