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Old 06-23-2006, 01:21 AM
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86560SEL 86560SEL is offline
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Join Date: Jan 2003
Location: east Tennessee (southeast USA)
Posts: 3,015
Thanks for the replies. The main reason I like this 420SEL better is not because of the headlights or the wheels, but rather the longer wheelbase. I like the short wheelbase 126's, but like the LWB's better.

Yeah, $1000 is a gamble. I "gambled" $1000. for my 85' 380SE (that was on e-bay) and it has been a very good reliable car, aside from the occasional stalling when the engine is hot- it always starts right back up, but it is annoying and a problem I am going to soon have resolved. Also, aside from not knowing when/if the timing chain/rails were changed, I think I did good. I have already gotten my $1000 worth use out of it I suppose.

About the engine- it does not look like a chain has broken through the valve covers. She said she installed a new battery, but it still will not start. I contacted again by e-mail (no # listed) and seem to not be able to get a detailed description on the symptom. I may let this one pass and let someone else give it a chance. Hopefully for them, it will be a minor problem.

Thanks for the replies / advice.


Quote:
Originally Posted by sixto
It's the same body style The 420 has US DOT aero headlights which are worthless. Your 380 has better lighting. You can upgrade either car to European/e-code lighting. The 420 has later style wheels. Same wheels fit your 380. 420 has smooth side cladding vs your 380's ribbed cladding. It's a bit of work to locate and install smooth cladding but it can be done.

$1000 is a gamble for a car you cannot check or have inspected. Let's say it's quick and cheap to get the engine started. Only then can you check things like engine compression, oil consumption, cooling system integrity, transmission, climate control, steering and suspension integrity, etc. I see good running 420SELs for $2500. Maybe not in the color combo you like and maybe not with low mileage, but...

Sixto
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