SL/R129: 500SL questions
12-27-2008, 07:38 PM
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88260E, 96E300D
500SL questions
Hi,
I have over the years bought cars during their first year of production. However, I am sure this was a mistake...eg...E300D...wow what a piece of crap.
Now I am looking at either a used 500SL or 560SL. I want a nice (low miles) car that I can drive. I put only a few miles on cars as my 88 260E has only 175K on it and that is kinda high for me.
How are the 1997 - 2001 500SL's made?? I hope better than newer MB's. I am sure that the older 560's were still made well but low mile cars are starting to fetch lots of dollars. I want to keep price below $22,000 if I can so I can have needed work done. The lower the better.
Has anyone had trouble with roof actuators?? I also understand that AC is trouble on SL's?? Any years to avoid?? Options to avoid..I am aware of the traction option isue. I am looking at a 1997 and a 2000 model now but haven't had either checked by tech.
My MercederBenz buyers guide, by Frank Barrett, is outdated so any help advice would be great.
Thanks
Chas
I have over the years bought cars during their first year of production. However, I am sure this was a mistake...eg...E300D...wow what a piece of crap.
Now I am looking at either a used 500SL or 560SL. I want a nice (low miles) car that I can drive. I put only a few miles on cars as my 88 260E has only 175K on it and that is kinda high for me.
How are the 1997 - 2001 500SL's made?? I hope better than newer MB's. I am sure that the older 560's were still made well but low mile cars are starting to fetch lots of dollars. I want to keep price below $22,000 if I can so I can have needed work done. The lower the better.
Has anyone had trouble with roof actuators?? I also understand that AC is trouble on SL's?? Any years to avoid?? Options to avoid..I am aware of the traction option isue. I am looking at a 1997 and a 2000 model now but haven't had either checked by tech.
My MercederBenz buyers guide, by Frank Barrett, is outdated so any help advice would be great.
Thanks
Chas
12-28-2008, 12:52 AM
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1985 380 SL 2001 SL 500 2007 E350 Sport 2008 T & C Ltd.
Use search for questions you have.
Also try benzworld.org
Good hunting.
Also try benzworld.org
Good hunting.
Last edited by crb49; 12-28-2008 at 12:54 AM.
12-28-2008, 09:41 AM
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SL600, BMW 335
But, I would buy a post-'96 to avoid the wiring harness issue. And, I would definitely get it inspected by a skilled MB mechanic before buying.
12-28-2008, 01:17 PM
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88260E, 96E300D
Thanks
I have a wonderful MB Tech in the business for 24+ years with MB sales and repair. Am planning on check up before purchase.
I thought wiring harness issue still around in 1999?? Anyone have link as I cannoy find in search?
In the original post I was thinking about build quality when I asked about 1997 - 2001 SL's. The 2001 SL's are very cool cars with advanced mechanics however driving a very low mile 560 reminds me of how cars should be made. I like that tight built like a tank feel....hope SL's (129's) are good if not that good.
But very low mile 560's are out of my budget..mid thirties +++ when I am looking to spend less than $26,000 including repairs and upgrades. I think I can find a nice, low mile?? 500SL near budget??
I thought wiring harness issue still around in 1999?? Anyone have link as I cannoy find in search?
In the original post I was thinking about build quality when I asked about 1997 - 2001 SL's. The 2001 SL's are very cool cars with advanced mechanics however driving a very low mile 560 reminds me of how cars should be made. I like that tight built like a tank feel....hope SL's (129's) are good if not that good.
But very low mile 560's are out of my budget..mid thirties +++ when I am looking to spend less than $26,000 including repairs and upgrades. I think I can find a nice, low mile?? 500SL near budget??
12-29-2008, 01:07 PM
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SL600, BMW 335
I have a wonderful MB Tech in the business for 24+ years with MB sales and repair. Am planning on check up before purchase.
I thought wiring harness issue still around in 1999?? Anyone have link as I cannoy find in search?
In the original post I was thinking about build quality when I asked about 1997 - 2001 SL's. The 2001 SL's are very cool cars with advanced mechanics however driving a very low mile 560 reminds me of how cars should be made. I like that tight built like a tank feel....hope SL's (129's) are good if not that good.
But very low mile 560's are out of my budget..mid thirties +++ when I am looking to spend less than $26,000 including repairs and upgrades. I think I can find a nice, low mile?? 500SL near budget??
I thought wiring harness issue still around in 1999?? Anyone have link as I cannoy find in search?
In the original post I was thinking about build quality when I asked about 1997 - 2001 SL's. The 2001 SL's are very cool cars with advanced mechanics however driving a very low mile 560 reminds me of how cars should be made. I like that tight built like a tank feel....hope SL's (129's) are good if not that good.
But very low mile 560's are out of my budget..mid thirties +++ when I am looking to spend less than $26,000 including repairs and upgrades. I think I can find a nice, low mile?? 500SL near budget??
