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I love my 06 SLK 280 that I've had since 2012 and have gotten an itch for something more classic. The R107 has caught my eye and thanks to the long production run and numbers, seems to be reasonable on price ranges.
When I'm looking at one before buying, what should I look at/for? I've watched a couple youtube videos and have a basic idea for how the hard and soft tops should operate. But when I'm looking at it, is there something specific I should examine to confirm it is in good order as opposed to working but not for much longer? Any spots to check for rust and avoid if present in that location? Stuff like that.
BTW - I'm looking at early 70s - I really prefer the euro bumpers. I'm not mechanically skilled, so I'm not looking for a project. It will live in the garage except for when I take it out on nice weekends. But when I take it out, I will want it to be reliable. Does not have to be perfect or anywhere near Concourse worthy.
So many different things to look for, different with every model. I suggest determine your favorite: 280 vs 500, stick shift? Gas mileage important? cost. Then you can get so good input what to look out for. Personally I feel the 280 stick is the most fun to drive but the 560 best ride and power feel. I also have an SLK (1998) an '83 380 SL and an '88 560 SL. SLK for fun driving, 380 is a drivable project and the 560 is all original perfect! Each of them have very different issues.
Being in the US, if I understand it correctly, since I want the euro bumpers, I need to stick with a 72 350SL or a 73 450SL. Unless I get lured by a grey market model, the 280, etc. aren't options. Also, I think the only option is automatic transmission. But I'm new to this, so my interpretation of what I've come across thus far could be wrong. I'm open to a stick shift. MPG is irrelevant as it won't be my daily driver, which is an EV so I don't have much gas spend any which way. The SLK is far more sport than my driving calls for - I'm not aggressive, I'm more into top down cruising. So I'm sure I'd be fine with a 280. Afterall, I used to drive an 83 240D with all of 68hp. I'm willing to go to about $30k, which from what I'm seeing only, should work for a really nice condition one - though not concourse quality. If I want a project, they come a bit under $10k. And it seems there is a lot of in between levels.
I wish I could give you more advice but my experience is limited to the 380 and 560. I can say the first 380 I bought needed a Lot more than I ever guessed and I never did get it all done! A car that has been outside, regardless of the miles is a bad one. Low mileage helps but these cars need parts just because of age alone. My '88 560 with 32k needs timing chain guides because the plastic is old and failing. It is "perfect" original but will need overhaul of the vacuum system and oiling of the blower motor, rework of the XXXX!
In my view a daily driver, kept inside and clean with service records is a keeper. Hold out for a good one.
The R107 is a great car to own but you better have deep pockets. Its also best to source some shops that can get you parts faster. And yeah Joe_Bagadonuts is right to stay away from rust buckets. Hope you find the right one!
I was lucky enough to find a low mileage (55K) plain Jane US model and did a "Euro conversion". Euro bumpers from Viet Nam, color-matched Fondmetal wheels from Poland, second hand Euro headlights and HK Sport performance springs (all sourced on Ebay)
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