looking to buy SL500 - 1982

[fiona]

Hi - i am new to this site.
Having got out of the commercial rat race i had to give up my 230 cab which is fine but am really missing the great drive of the MB and the wind in my hair!
I have viewed a SL500 which i have fallen in love with - but it may need a new hood and despite passing its MOT a month ago has seat belts which don't fit the buckle - which is making me wonder what else may have been 'overlooked'!!
My main concern is running and maintenance - my MB main dealer tried to overcharge me at a service by over £150... including £60.00 to twist on an aerial... therefore i wouldn't be taking it there.
Can anyone give me an idea of annual service costs, Mpg etc??
Any help most appreciated!

Fiona

 

[echo200]

For such a vintage top-of-the-range model, I suggest that you give MB dealers a wide berth. Find an independent MB specialist. They should be able to provide you with the necessary information.

Try this (review) link. It might also give you some idea of what you are letting yourself in for.

http://www.carsurvey.org/review_47846.html

 

[fiona]

Thanks for the heads up - i spent all day yesterday looking for info about what can go wrong.
Maybe i should look at the 380 which will probably be a little more practical!

 

[AndrewP]

Hello Fiona, I am currently advertising on behalf of an acquaintance a 1980 500SL which has covered just 56000 miles in the hands of 2 mature owners. It is a very original car, never damaged, finished in gorgeous petrol blue (an aqua blue) with tan leather and has the original hard-top too. Seeking offers around £9500. Please see the link to my website to see photos of the car which is located in East Sussex.

http://www.photobox.co.uk/shared/group.html?c_album=1617806

Andrew

 

[pascal]

I don't agree

Unless the 380 has the upgraded timing chain, I would stay clear. This engine was a lightweight alloy head.
The upgrade became standard from factory around 82/83.

With any older car, service records, milage confirmation etc. are important.

Personally I would go for 500, but there is always a risk involved with any older car.

Regarding service, there are plenty of indies around the country. Put you area in the search box.

Pascal

 

[classicsl]

i know i am biased as i own one but i would go for the 300SL. Having done a fair bit of research on the 107 prior to purchasing it, i would go for the 300 for the following reasons:
- get the later one you can afford i.e post 1985 300,420, or 500. the later ones have the most efficient engines and of these the 300 is the most fuel efficient (i get 25-30 mpg around town)
- later ones were much better rust protected.
- advice from MB specialist suggested that the car couldnt not handle the power put down by the V8's (420 and 500) and i can understand why, even the 300 is light at the back in the wet
- article in mercedes enthusiast (i think april or may 05 can check if you like) shows that the 300SL has the best resale price at the moment, but i guess this is because they are more abundant and more about on the market.

go for one with FULL history, rust is the evil...check sills, in the boot and wheel arches. great car, find a good one and you will be the envy of the neighbourhood!!

 

[AndrewP]

Photo of the 500SL for sale attached.

Just thought I ought to add a photo of the 500SL being sold privately that I mentioned earlier above, the car has the original paint, never had any welding or body repairs and been serviced from new by MB main dealer then by John Haynes of Worthing. You will struggle to find one better in my opinion! Hope I'm not trying too hard here!

 

[Myros]

500 Sl

yes, by all means, but maybe not the one you had a look at. There are plenty out there, just don't be in a rush. There will be a fresh batch at the end of the summer as people give up on their roof off jollies and return to normality.
Best advice, buy the best one you can afford, regardless of engine size. Body, body, body, rust rust rust, electrics. The mechanicals can usually be fixed.