R107/SL, 1970-89. Which one?????

[Lynx7]

Hi there, new to the Merc fraternity (at present, a classic Jag type!). A question that has no doubt been asked a zillion times before so I appologise! I have searched through the archives but could not find the information I was after.

Ok, Im in the market for an SL. Which one?? I heard some time ago that the one to go for was the 350SL due to reliability, performance and running costs. All round compromise which is what Im after.

So. Which engine, spec, year??

Much appreciated in advance.

 

[mlc]

Hi,

Although the model ran for around 18 years and the cars look similar things changed greatly. Early cars ( I have a 72 350SL) were very advanced for the day, but are heavy on fuel and prone to rust. They also have very few creature comforts, no a/c, no cruise, manual windows, plastic (sorry MBTex) seats etc, whilst by 89 they had most of the goodies that modern cars have and more efficent engines. That said even the first cars are great fun and have plenty of power.

The biggest single item seems to be the rust problem on early cars, be sure you know what you are buying.

Good luck
Mark

 

[mjtray]

If you buy after 1986 the cars were galvanised.

My personal choice would be the 300sl as they still have a nice turn of speed, half decent fuel economy and are much easier to work on and fix....if fuel is not a concern, then the 500sl would make an entertaining choice.

 

[43722]

I have a 1985 280Sl that is reasonable on fuel 20mpg upto 25mpg on a run, from 85 they came with ABS as standard a good thing on such a heavy car. As the other chap says post 86 are galvanised which makes them last. but from 78 ish they were phosporus coated and electrolitical primed and so rust is not to bad of an issue. Always check the heater plenum chamber and each corner below the heater intake vents best way is to remove plastic cover on bulk head and covers under dash look around heater and in each corner you will have to pull back the sound deadening. Also look under hood cover as this can rust and front of back wings at the top. Also boot floor. check for leaks.

Hope this helps

 

[Lynx7]

Many thanks. Its certainly given me some options to think about.

 

[GH300SL]

I have a beautiful 1986 300SL which I will have to sell to pay for a wedding. This is the updated model and has on 76k miles and is in lovely condition.

It depends when you are thinking of buying but I can send you some piccies and details if you are interested. I would welcome any inspection etc etc..

I have piles of paperwork and service history, a stand for the hard top, cover etc etc.. I would probably look for about £ 12,500.00

I haven't advertised the car yet as I'm still negotiating with the lady and figured it would be easier to sell in the spring. I think inevitably it will have to go...