I have twice purchased an SEL
1983 380SEL
1993 500SEL

From my experience I suggest that you need to be a risk taker. Also, you need to define what things you really will live with if they break.

I have enjoyed both cars, and am glad I bough each. BUT magic things have happend with both - things that just were not visable when I bought the car.

The power steering pump blew on the 380SEL and the transmission sprang a leak on the 500SEL.

I only sold the 380SEL (yes some one bought it with 293K miles) when the rear engine seal leaked so that I was embaressed - puddle at each parking spot. I still own the 500SEL.

Summary: I agree with others - have the car checked out my a Mercedes mechanic, but also realize that something very expensive is going to break on the SEL.

My next car will be an S class. They are great. Enjoy your adventure.

__________________
Thanks for the help
Bill Fisher

'86 560SL (186K) - Now a 'classic' : Registered as an Historic Vehicle
02 E430 in the stable
'14 LS460 (Lexus)
- - - - -
'95 E420 (198K) found a new home
'99 E320 (80K) (gave it's life for me as we hit a bumper)
'95 E420 (231K) Sold to a happy buyer, new to Mercedes
'90 300E (65K) Sold to an Mercedes Lover
'92 190E (215K) - retired to the salvage yard
'93 500SEL (214K) - Moved to another family, still runs like a young pup