I have decided to buy a 85' 380SE and wondering about the performance of this car. I am having the car delivered, so I will not be able to drive it before I buy. I know it is the smaller V8, but since it is the "SE" it is the shorter wheelbase and lighter than the 500SEL (which is a 5.0L). Is this offset enough for this car to have adequate power?

Also, about the coolant levels on these Mercedes. I have been looking at several and many do not appear to have the coolant tank full. Actually, the car I am looking at is a little less than 1/2 level. Should these things always be full, or do they fluctuate? Also, when I get the car, I want to fill it up if it needs to be. I have heard that the "common" green anti-freeze is not acceptable on a Mercedes. What exactly is recommended?

Thanks in advance!

Update- I did another search and seems as if the dealer antifreeze is the way to go. Now, if I need to get the tank full? Any special procedures other than pouring it in? I ask because I had a Lumina that had a special procedure you had to do.