I spent way too much time and money on my 560SEL. And after 40 years of driving...in my heart it's still the favorite car i've ever had. Best fuel economy i ever had was cruising at 80-85 mph, and we could arrive pretty fresh after a 9 hour drive. Sweet cruiser.

Downside--most any vehicle of that age will need to have virtually all the rubber parts (suspension, vaccuum connectors, hoses, tubes, vac lines, etc) replaced unless it's already been done. Brittle electrical connectors and wiring from age. Timing chain and guide rails--if they've not been changed, just do it. I waited and had the chance to tear down the top end of the engine. It was a good outcome, but better to be pre-emptive. Self-levelling suspension--had to do the accumulators, not nearly as bad a job as i expected from what i read in advance.

With a few special tools and an Alldatadiy subscription, a relatively easy car to dissamble and reassemble. With some patience and the support of the group on PeachParts Forums, it can all be done as long as you have a solid base to work with. Mine was my daily driver when i had it--don't think i'd do that again. Capable to be driven every day--yes, just need to be able to put it in the garage for a few weeks every now and then to sort through the latest issue. If you're not willing to sort out your own mechanicals--you better have some really deep pockets.

Summary--Probably a cheaper hobby than golf, and people will nod and smile in approval more often!!

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Earl McLain
'02 C230 Kompressor
'89 560 SEL "Frau BlueCar" (retired April 2004)