jwframe

I have a 1986 Diamond Blue 300e that is in need of a paint job. I have been collecting replacement parts along the way and I am facing the decision to go back with diamond blue or pick a slightly different more modern color of blue like pacific blue. I don't want to completely change the color to keep it simple. Can you wise ones please give me some advice on picking a different blue, changing to a gray blue, or leave it the hell alone?

Also, do I update the cladding or stick with the original rub strips that came on it. Paint the cladding to match or stay with the blue over gray look.

I have searched to forum and gotten lots of tips on painting and cladding and facelifting. I am need of a vote especially from people who have seen lots of different blue mercedes over the years.

Thanks a bunch.

My Car
Pacific Blue
and
btw Does anyone else have these rims? Came off a 95 e320

http://picasaweb.google.com/jwframe/MB#

ps2cho

What's the issue with the paint? It looks shiny in the picture

ksing44

I have the wheels. They are the "Special Edition" wheels from the 1995 cars. I use mine in the winter.

I think the cladding is a HUGE improvement!!! I would never change the color of a car. I also think the two-tone paint looks great on some cars, although I think my favorite is the same color but slightly different finish that was done on my 1995 E320.

Bye the way, I am not too wise or too cool.

190E 16V

I would definitely go for the updated cladding and probably all the same paint for the top and bottom.
In my opinion, a darker blue, similar to ksing's would look better on your car. The whole thing would look much more current. Chrome or polished wheels would provide a better contrast and much nicer total effect with the darker paint.

I looked at all your pictures of the blue car. I suggest that you paint the rest of the car to match the rear and the right side. That alone would update it a lot!

BTW, I'm not cool either, but I am a wise-guy.

jwframe

Thanks guys. I appreciate the comments. I really need to get a nice picture of my car that doesn't have either soap or snow on it. We get excited about snow around here and it seems that all of my car pictures have snow on them.

I am not going to facelift the car because I like the original grill and hood but I am looking for cladding, front and rear bumpers with the chrome trim and new door handles and mirrors. I already have the updated trunk, taillights, and stainless door sills that say mercedes. I might get a small sample of the pacific blue and paint something with it before I decide to change.

I have really learned a lot by searching the forum for refinishing wheels. I am currently practicing on my spare rim that has damage to it. Going to try to refinish these special edition rims before I try my original ones. Any more tips would be appreciated.

Bigpete123

Definitely change up the color- that color is a bit dated (no offense). A darker blue would look great.

And definitely paint the cladding.

ksing44

I think you should do something about your headlights. The old plastic two-piece version really isn't very attractive. The old grille is awesome, but the lights not so much.

BJaltima

I suggest painting it the original color combo with the updated cladding.

myfirstbenz

A clean, polished diamond blau benz looks very good... they use that color now as Alpine Rain (more or less) Colors come and go in popularity, respraying in a different color will be too much work and will never be right. The with tinted windows and clear corner lights, and smoked tail lights, a diamond blau benz is a sharp looking car. I always get compliments on my kombi.

Oh and also add "stock" euro lights. Ditch the US spec crap.

190E 16V

Long time, no hear, "Big Pete"!

Hope you're well.

justinwrock

What is wrong with Diamond Blue Metallic?



My Wagons that color, and its a nice color. I like it because its a different shade of blue in a sea of blue cars. You paint looks fine too.

ZorroAMG

I don't think you should change it. Get clear corners, euro lights and paint your bumpers and cladding to match to clean it all up. Here's a quick 2 min chop to show you...

myfirstbenz

True story, you have a great looking wagon

jwframe

Thanks for all your help. I am bidding on a 95 e320 special edition and will probably win. That will give me the remaining parts I need before updating. I'll also have a lot of parts avalible for sale if I get it. I'll keep you all posted on this thread. Auction ends on the 13th. Thanks for all your help.