Hi,
If the vehicle was in Australia, it would sell for in excess of US$15,000.00, so I can't comment on it's US value. The 280SL is the same W107 body and running gear as the US V8's except for the square headlights, thin chrome bumpers and vacume headlight height adjustment. So mechanicals, ie brakes, suspension, body parts, glass are the same. The engine should be the inline six 110 motor, double overhead cam hemi motor. They are one of the most reliable engines produced by Mercedes, however do get a bit tappety with high miles, but just keep going. They last here for in excess of 250,000kms. If you own a Euro, you need two workshop manuals, one for the W107 body and one for the 110 engine. If it'a a manual, you'll find it's no performace machine, but they are hauling some serious weight. They ride firmer and handle better than the US 8's and use less gas and hence are more fun to drive. The auto's are marginally slower, but on personal opinion, I'd have to say a 280SL with the 5 speed box is the closest you will get to a Mercedes Sports car. Wish it was over here for that price.