Buying a '97 SL 600, need advise

[raftel]

Against the advice of many postings I've seen on this forum, as well as my trusted mechanic, I'm probably going ahead with the purchase of a Black/Black '97 SL600 Sport. It has 57,000 miles, all the dealer service stamps, and is in excellent condition. It was originally a MBNA executive car, and was kept by them in that capacity until this past spring.

My inspection revealed nothing except a bit of vibration in the steering wheel at speed. The tires were about midway through their lifespan, and the 18" AMG wheels were spotless. Everything seems to work, nothing seems to leak. In other words, it appears to have been a well kept car that did not suffer from deferred maintainance.

All the accessories, including the top and the suspension function well.

My mechanic looks at the car this week, and his approval is the only contingency I've placed on the purchase. Is there anything else I should be on the lookout for?

I'm a fairly decent DIYer, and I've noticed that although some parts for this car cost the world (brake calipers, master cylinder), most parts aren't too far off of the SL 500. In your opinions, between decent DIY skills, the newly released DVD service manuals, a good independent shop, and forums like these, can these cars be maintained affordably (say $2,000/yr for 5,000 miles)? I know your mileage may vary, and I might snap a crankshaft or something, I'm talking typical odds.

Lastly, does anyone use a speciality insurer to cover their 600 (Hagerty)?

Thanks,

Robert