drv1981

Hello

hope you all are well??

I am a strong enthusiast for the w124 CABRIOLET.

I am in a Dilema..

The w124 Convertible sportline models were available before the facelift and also after the facelift.

If there was a choice between a 1993 pre facelift 320ce sportline with 25k miles on clock or a 1994 post facelift e320 sportline with again 25k miles on clock, for similar money, which would you choose? and why?

Both seem great, the pre facelift is more aggressive whilst the post facelift is more elegant, what would you think has a better long term value??

thanks guys

BrabusBenz300E

Post facelift...not really a close debate in my mind

ZorroAMG

Pre facelift is a much better look for the W124 IMO...the post looks too much like the W140 and the W202...whatever though...as far as value, the newer, less miles will be a better resale but if they are the same mileage for similar money, pick the one you like.

PRE ftw.

190E 16V

Post facelift. FTW

Personally, I too, find it more elegant, and isn't that what yo want in a cabriolet?

IMO, the facelift car looks less dated, and I think others feel the same way. There is more than one owner who has gone to the expense of updating their car by swapping out the front end.

Generally, I think there is more appeal for the 'Post' models and fewer of them. I don't know the production figures, but '124's were manufactured from about 1985 to 1995 - facelifts only being 94 - 95. That may make a difference in value, although, I think the car's equipment, colour and condition will play a greater role.

Campbell's chunky soup eats better with a spoon - no, a fork!

RHW

Prefacelift for a collectable. Aside from the old school look...only about 10% of USA imported cars were old school.

I own a 94 and 95 Cab, but really like the prefacelift look. (See Tom Cruise in "The Firm")

For a driver, it just doesn't matter, grab the best deal - although I like the more modern look on the road daily *because I've flopped at the mod scene, and it looks better out of the box.



For a collector, (Assuming USA) the 93 is far more rare. Something like 750 bought here versus 6000, and very few Sportlines.

In Europe loads of Sportlines can be had probably in both versions. I'd take both if you can.

190E 16V

I'm glad RHW joined in there. Not knowing the production figures, I would have misled you.

renzbenz

I hope you guys aren't right about face lifting a 93 Cab. Tomorrow I will begin installing an Expressions Body Kit that updates this old girl with an SL style hood, bumpers, side skirts, and air dam with lights. I pondered the "value" question for many days. Too late now.

1995E320Cab

Save all of your old parts !!!!

Chappy

I would get the 94-95 car, if only for the vastly superior headlights.

renzbenz

Thanks. I was wondering if I should save them. I'll probably save them just in case ... I usually save everything. I even have the original radio. I am looking to get another W124 Cab.

Unlike the other guys here (no offense whatsoever), I like the newer lines on the 94 and 95. I wish the had made a wide body. The car looks so much sleeker when lower and widened slightly.

/Users/Ren/Pictures/Cars/MB 300CEC/Kits/Expression_03b.jpg

renzbenz

How do you attache a picture in here?

pifcat2

The styling is subjective, you will find dedicated fans of both styles so the debate can go on for pages. By value, if you mean cost of ownership then it's probably even as both have their unique potentially costly problems. You need to do some searches to be aware of them.

Buy what you like, maintain it well and you won't be disappointed...

pifcat2

when you reply, scroll down the page to "attach files". You can either upload them from your computer or from a URL (photobucket etc)

renzbenz

If I did it right, here's "after" picture of the Expression Kit on a 300CE Cab

RHW

Renz, for the upgrade cost, you could garage a spare Cab.

I am an admitted flop as a modder but I seriously doubt I'd do that to a 93 with probably only 350 nice ones left in the USA.

It does look really good.

renzbenz

RHW, you are probably right. This is an expensive project. But, the car needed a total overhaul anyway. The clear coat was peeling and the interior was shot. It is about to flip 100k miles. The mechanics have been meticulously maintain though!

Good thing: Im saving all the original parts. It should be pretty much bolt-on. I do respect the idea of preservation, but what good is it if you can't enjoy it! I'm seriously thinking of buying another one anyway.

Yeah ... I really like the looks of this body kit. I don't really get the fascination with the AMG kits.

Saijin_Naib

AMG Gen I + Monoblocks I is a very subtly aggressive style that fits the lines and look of the car perfectly. It's been done to death, but that does not make it any less of a clean look. I happen to love it but can't afford that sorta stuff

Chinny4290

Post faceilift will hold the higher value.

RHW

Chinny, Are you answering the OP?
with 6000 facelift Cabs and 700 non facelift Cabs, everything equal, I disagree.

But don't sell that black coupe in NJ without emailing me first.

Chinny4290

Yea...but I kinda just went off of what I've experienced. All cabbys I've seen in my area have all gone for $15k+ and were all post facelift.

Oh and not gunna happen

RHW

"Oh and not gunna happen "

Yea, I didn't figure and I know how you feel.
Isn't it great in 2009 to still feel that way?

She's a beaut.

renzbenz

Interesting. The post facelift Cabs are currently bringing a high price. Interesting given how rare the 93s are.

renzbenz

RHW: Things aren't looking good for the Expressions kit. My guys started the install today. It doesn't appear to be bolt-on as advertised. I stopped the install. If ain't bolt on and bolt off, I won't move forward. With only a few hundred of these, I can see modifying the car. Stay tuned

Zytek_Fan

Post facelift looks better and is more sought after.

Eurosport

1995 imo, last of the best