galaxyjb

I have found a 280se 4.5 that I am interested in buying and everything checks out in terms of rust, mechanicals, service records etc. I initially started my search looking for one with the straight six thinking that fewer parts to the engine and more space under the hood would make it easier and less expensive to work on (I plan on keeping this car for a very long time) but the bosch mechanical injection seems like something I would need a specialist for where as the d-jettronic seems like something that I can trouble shoot a lot of myself.

So is buying a 4.5 over a six a lot more expense and maintenance when things need work? How long do these motors generally last between needing major/minor overhauls (i.e. time between rebuilding the heads, bottom end, timing chain replacement, water pump longevity, etc. etc.). I suppose we should also discuss the mileage that the transmissions generally go between needing rebuilding too.

The car I'm looking at has just shy of 80,000 miles and it all seems good but am I 20,000 away from worn out cams, head overhaul, etc. I know there are a lot of variables to answering these questions but just trying to get a general sense.

Any input on longevity of major components is greatly appreciated.