To buy (450SL) or not to buy - that is the question!

[stevet]

I'm toying with the idea of buying a 1980 450SL convertible that I have heard about for my wife (she only does a maximum of 3K a year!) It has both soft and hard tops, done 92K miles and had a new MB gearbox 18 months ago. Asking price is £5,950

Two questions: Is the price in the right ballpark and what areas do I need to watch out for in a car of this type and age?

Thanks in advance for any advice and any pointers!

 

[Myros]

Rust rust rust rust rust

Did I mention rust. Faves are sills, wheelarch edges, wheelarch/sill , behind all the carpets everywhere, plenum chamber, behind the rear valance, behind the headlights, and anywhere else the human eye or hand can see or go. Timing chain tensioners need replacing at 75-100K. Diff apparently whines on all of them, mine included. Check the hoods fit properly,as the locking catches on the hardtop come in at over £100 each.A new soft top will cost about £700 to source and fit. At least the tranny seems to have been done, that needs looking at at about 100k as well.
The engine should be sound and solid, although stuff like idle control valves and other electronics come in at hundreds of pounds, rather than dozens. the trim parts will make you wince for price, even if your name is J P Getty.
Unsurpassable in driving pleasure though.
Go and have a look at some of the 15-20k ones in the specialist showrooms, then have another look at your intended. A full, if not MB service history is essential. The big cross member over the rad should have the chassis no stamped on it. If not, walk away as it's a shunt repair and probably a time bomb.