Just about to buy first merc 1972 250c coupe

[askme]

Ive always wanted this car simply cos ive always loved the look of it, I was hoping someone could give me some pointers as to what to look out for when I view it, weak spots etc?.It been well looked after and is very original.
Thank you is advance!

 

[pascal]

It a W114 coupe that you are talking about. I don't know what versions were a vailable in RHD. There were two 250 coupes, one with the M130 engine, the other with a M114 one. At he end of its life this car was fitted with an M110 motor, and it was called the 280C Coupe.

If you put the words 'Mercedes W114' into the google search bar or 'W112' into the above search on this site.

Pascal

 

[paulcallender]

A 1972 car is pretty old, so ANYTHING could be wrong, or worn out, on it. I think they initially did a 250C and CE versions, then later on upgraded the engine to 2.8 litres and 280C/CE according to if it had fuel injection. They never did a 4 cylinder version, unlike the subsequent models.

Due to the age, the most important thing would be to check bodywork for rust. Bodywork's always the most expensive single thing to sort out. Having said that, if there are a number of other smaller issues, the costs could easily mount up and up. For example, the little vacuum bellows wear out and leak. There is a double vacuum servo under each seat, which holds the seat in the latched position when the engine is running and the doors are closed. This would be a potential MoT failure point.

I believe the heater unit and bumpers cost a lot for this model.

Hmm, what else? Can't really think of anything specific, just be sure (due to the age) that you do a thorough check, and be prepared to spend more money than the average car, in keeping it running as it gets older.

I have a 1976 280CE so feel free to ask any specific questions.