I just became a member of this site. I have a 1982 300D Turbodiesel. I have an opportunity to buy either a 1999 SL500 or a 1998 SL600. The 500 has 65,000 miles, paint chips, a couple of minor scratches and a couple of blemishes on the convertible top and it is for sale at $19,900. The 600 appears to be showroom perfect in every respect and has 25,000 miles for $18,000. I've done a ton of "research", and everything I've read contridicts "everything I've read". Needless to say, I'm very confused. I have a 300D that I absolutely love, and I'm familiar with the finicky personalty of a MB - and even the contradictory opinions. So, I'm going to the experts - people that actually own these cars. I hate this question, so I'm apologizing for even asking it ---- but ---- which should I buy? Are these good deals or should I just walk away from both of them? I really really want the 600, but I'm told the 600 has way too many electronic problems. But then, I'm told the 500 is a money pit also for other reasons. BTW, the 300D has almost 300,000 miles. The biggest problems I've had with this car has been the cruise control (just doesn't work anymore), the heater control valve and the brakes wear out way too soon. But it has been my "baby" for way too many years, and it is time I find it a garage-mate.

 

Welcome. Let me give you a brief rundown of my personal experiences. Keep in mind that everyone's experiences differ because of the prior conditions and driving/maintenance habits. My first MB was a 500SEC '87. Owned for 5 years and clocked around 70,000km. Absolutely no problems, was a great car. Next was a '91 AMG SL500, had some serious flaws cause the car had questionable history which I wasn't told and fooled (my ignorance and learning curve). Still, after fixing the problems w/ modest cost, the car performed well and I was able to sell it off w/ hardly any loss after several years of ownership. Currently, I own two MBs. One is a '94 AMG E60 (W124) since 1996. Absolutely one of a kind, keeper's car. Mind you, I am the type that do not drive hard and I do spend what's necessary to maintain the car is excellent running condition. Over the 12 years, the total cost is probably quite substantial, but they were all necessary wear/ tear and none were unexpected nuisances. The other car is your interested SL600 V12. Mine is a 1997 exclusive R129 and purchased it in 1999 w/ 7000km. It has around 80,000km clocked and the car has been an absolute pleasure to drive. The only major maintenance I had so far was an engine out job to replace a cheap rubber part (few bucks for the item), cost a bundle for engine out job. Other maintenances were routine wear/tear and nothing terribly wrong as you may have read in others' experiences. As you see, I have driven both SL500s and SL600s. Many claim that SL500 is better or enough HP, etc., which I do agree because that's how I felt back then. Prior to my purchase of SL600, I wasn't too keen on V12 for the same reasons that's going thru your brain. However, once you drive V12, there's no turning back. Different car indeed. Smooth, quiet as an electric car, flies like a jetplane, luxurious interior, and more than enough HP & torque for normal use, unless you are into bragging about numbers to impress others. Most likely, other negative reviews of V12 you hear are due to poor conditions/maintenances and driving habits. Another point to remember is that over the span of R129s 10 years model, the earlier models seemed to have had hearsay problems. The latter, late models had these electrical and other problems resolved and thus being "perfected" to be extremely reliable. So, the point is to acquire a late model V12 (SL600). That's my advice based on my personal experiences. Good luck in your search. w/ smiles Jimmy

 

They are both great cars, but coming from a diesel, be prepared for a shock at the gas pump if you buy the V12. The 98 and newer 600s had a new fuel injection system which was MUCH nicer, but they are still prone to the common V12 leaks. The upper front timing covers leak$$$$, especially on low mileage cars, as they heat up and cool down so infrequently that the seals dry up and crack. The ADS suspension system is prone to air cells(dampening canisters) leaking$$$, resulting in a bouncy, or a very very firm ride. The powersteering pumps tend to leak on the ADS cars also$$$, due to the engine heat. They are however VERY smooth, very nice power for a big, N/A V12, have an addicting sound, and ride like a dream. The V8 models also have their issues, as the 98 and older 500s are prone to a ticking noise from the top end of the engine$$, which requires removal of the valve covers, and replacing the oil tubes for the rockers. Not really a very big deal, but something to watch for. The 99 and newer models had the newer engine, that is prone to oil sludging if they are older than 01 model year as MB did not require synthetic oil be used until May 2001, however, we are graced by a wonderful thing called "O'Keefe vs MBUSA, and that is still in effect(you may have to fight a little though if you have an issue). The V8 models are nice because they still have at least 302 horsepower, so they move well, won't cost as much to maintain, and are easier to insure(Insurance companies seem to think anything with a V12 is exotic). All SLs are susceptible to the water leaks and wind noises associated with convertibles, occasionally, top latches can leak or stick, and the removeable hardtop can be cumbersome.
But, the fit and finish is what you would expect of a Mercedes(the V12s have a wonderful Nappa leather and more extensive wood interior), and any of the SLs drive great, are attractive to look at(even being 7 years old), and can still make you smile when you drive it. This car is really the pinnacle of roadsters.

Did I mention I work on MBs at a dealer, and only see these in the shop rarely? Getting one to work on is actually something of a rarity and a joy as they are fantastic vehicles if they are taken care of. I have a customer that has an 02 SL500 with over 145000 miles on it and it really only begs of a detail.

Nick

 

Either way, getting into an R129, as solid as the car may be, it can become costly to keep it running at that peak condition. I would negotiate that 600 down to $16,000 and put a few thousand away for maintenance.

The power of the 500 is more than enough for daily driving, but the difference between the two is certainly there. You notice it at part-throttle and especially at wide open. Manually downshift into 2nd gear at 50mph and give it a half-throttle squeeze...you'll know what I mean.

I can't say I'm a huge fan of ADS, considering the car has a fairly rough ride regardless, and it is a repair bill waiting to happen. If I end up holding onto the car long enough to run into that, I will probably resort to ripping it all out and replacing it with a standard setup, albeit lowered.

Search the forum a bit too, as this topic has been covered several times before. Benz World also has a very detailed R129 forum, which I browse through from time to time.

 

I own a SL600, and I wouldn't even consider a year older SL500 with more miles for the same money. The 600 will cost more to maintain and fuel, but it's really special when compared to ta 500. That said, neither car is a wise choice as a daily-driver.....both are very complicated.

 

Oops!, I meant year newer SL500!

 

Can't argue that last comment haha. But the fuel economy difference is negligible between the two, as both are two-ton tanks with large thirsty motors. For all that extra power though, driving fifty miles less per tank is worth it I feel.

 

New to the forum, Hi. Just bought a 97 SL 500. Some one mentioned the oil tubes in the head.
Average cost to fix at M.B. shop? I have considerable exp. with domestic car maint. and repair. Poss. to fix at home ? Any suggestion or helpfull hints to make home job easier.