Thanks Jim. I was thinking that I was once told that the 6-cylinder W126 engine was not as prone to failure as the W126 V8 was. I was hoping it was a non-interference engine all together, but I do not know of any "non-interference" MBs.
To be honest - when I sold my 85' W126 last year, I always said if I ever bought another MB, it would be a diesel. I have always wanted a 1981-87 S-Class diesel. However, this was when diesel was $2.50 per gallon. Its what, around $4.10 per gallon now around here, so I have changed my mind a bit.
I have found a local 1985 300SD, but they want $3500 for it and it does not look to be in all that good of shape.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Jim B.
I can't honestly answer the question about the timing chain set up on the 177 hp 6 cylinder W126 engine, but have heard that the timing chain/tensioner/guide rail 100k mile change doesn't seem to be quite as imperative and urgent as on the V8 W126ers
Beyond that, the close coupled W126 short wheelbase SE is a remarkably agile handler for its size, more sexy looking than the SEL and the gargantuan W140 cars you are looking at.
Moreover, with the axle ratio it has, the 300SE is suprisingly peppy in city traffic, and while it is slow in merging and passing compared to the 560SEL/SEC, once at highway speed, you can't tell the difference, they are all great highway cruisers, able to reel in large chunks of macadam in a single stretch.
Of all of them, the 300SE will be the best on gas consumption, a fair thing to consider , in these out of joint times.
Buy the 300SE, pending a PPI
Some W126 tips for buyers can be found at this place, I co wrote it in 1998 with the 560SEC coupes in mind, but a lot applies to the 300SE also.
www.mbcoupes.com (buyers guide) |