Most overlook the front end when checking out a used car. There are some pricey items up front such as the brake strap bushings (track rod mounts) and uppers ball joints. If the front end hasn't been touched, budget $1000 for a front end rebuild. New shocks will run you a few hundred dollars; more if you don't do them yourself.

AC will be at least $1500 if it doesn't blow cold. CC control panel is a few hundred (the pushbutton face). If the sunroof doesn't pop up you are lookin at $200 per lifting angle. There are 2 and it is a big job. If it needs new tires, budget $400. If it hasn't had a valve job, it will need one- or at least new seals. Top end on the V8s is much pricier than the inlines. Also, you will need to worry about chain breakage. I stopped by the local shop to pick up a buld the other day. In his bay was a 420sel. Had 60k on the clock and was getting new valve guides. They were shot.

If you want this car to be 'right,' it might take big dollars.

Mike

ps- on your test drive, go in a parking lot and turn the car hard and load up the joints in various ways. Loose joints often won't show up unless you load them up enough.

__________________
'90 300SE 298k
-300K and it gets put into retirement.
'80 300D 255k Purchased new by family in 1980.

Had a:
1973 220 (gas)
1980 300SD
1992 400E