190SL 1955-1963 - Any Advice?

[nomis]

I'm considering buying a 1960s 190SL and was wondering is any current forum members own (or have owned one) and can offer any advice?

The car will be a weekend, and sunny day, only vehicle as I have a daily driver. I have always been a fan of this body style but know little about the reliablity, running cost, problem areas or anything else relevant to ownership.

Any view and eductated opinions welcome

Thanks in advance

Simon

 

[paulcallender]

Very sweet looking car. I don't have one (I have a 1976 280CE tho) and so I'll leave specifics, about running this car to others. But, I did a quick flick through a classic car magazine and couldn't find any for sale. So you could be in for a lengthy search for one. There is a website which collates the stock lists from prestige classic car delaers across Europe, if needs be I'll dig it out for you.

Have you considered other cars in this price bracket? The 1963-1971 Pagoda is around the same price bracket but much more obtainable, and better performing, etc. But I admit it doesn't possess the same charm as an early 1960s motor.

As a very vague, general rule, the older the car, ironically the easier it is to work on.

 

[nomis]

Hi Paul, thanks for the reply!

At the moment, I've found two cars and am viewing one today (am trying to view the other also!), so they can be found but you're right - not as easily as others. As it's the asethetics of the car that appeal to me, I'm going to stick with the 190SL at the moment.

As for speed, I'm not too worried as I have a 996 Turbo I can call upon for that need! :twisted: :-D

Thanks again for the advice

 

[Myros]

Mercedes Enthusiast

usually has one or two for sale, and did a bit of an article last year, as well as a heftier one well before that. I think the main problems are going to be tinworm, as the mechanicals, like most classic mercs, work well and can be fixed. I think the germans have a 190SL club. It might be worth digging about on their site if they have one.

 

[Myros]

try this

http://www.mercedes-benz190sl-club.de/

 

[nomis]

http://www.mercedes-benz190sl-club.de/

Thanks for that... car I looked at today was pretty rough :-?

The other one - the one that seemed to be in pretty good nick - has been sold!

So, I've called about another but my gut feeling is that most are going to be pretty tired and not cared for the way a 300SL (1955-1963) will have been...

:|

 

[Myros]

you knew I was going to say this

think about a 107 instead. Mine's a barrel full of laughs, and there are more to choose from.