PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post - Thoughts on a 1990 560SEL with all maintenance records and very good body/interior?

Hit Man X · #10 02-25-2013, 09:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jooseppi Luna

Thanks for the input so far! I think we are trying to drive the buyer toward this beautiful 1987 Mercury Grand Marquis coupe with black exterior/red leather interior. instead -- better mileage on 87-octane, cheaper parts, cheaper insurance "class", "luxury".

You think that car will have better fuel economy? You are in for a shock.

That 5L is a gutless turd in those... I had that same setup in my F150 before I did a pile to it and my old '88 Towncar. That Mercury is rated at a stellar 155hp. The AOD has no torque multiplication in 3rd and 4th gears and falls on its face as soon as it upshifts to 3rd. I think they have a 3.27:1 rear diff and a 2.40:1 first in that trans.

The only thing cheaper about it would be the price of parts. Insurance cost on both is pretty much moot as these cars are nearly worthless.

PS, the 560 burns 87 just fine and you are better off driving these in 3rd gear around town. Mine averages pretty much the same fuel economy as my gutless wonder 300SEL but has ~100tq more around 1000rpm sooner.

Best deal going in the W126 is the 420SEL. No Diesel fuel upcharge at the pump (same price at 93 octane here) and returns slightly better econ than the 560 along with less crap to fail.