Chaparral2f Posted August 7, 2009 Share Posted August 7, 2009 There is a Mercedes SL for sale that I pass evey day on my way to town. It looks really neat, but I know nothing about MB's. I figured I'd ask you guys if you've had any experience with the SL. I think it is an SL 500, and I'd guess its about an '86. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MAG58 Posted August 7, 2009 Share Posted August 7, 2009 What all do you know about it? The cars like all MB's usually last until Hell Freezes over and still starts up afterwards. Most of these were good cars from what I've seen, though there were a few problems. Ironically in 86 there was a redesign of the R107 platform. This includes bigger brakes and heavier suspension from the MB sedans. It is good to note a few of the problems with the car though. The engine wiring loom for most MB's prior to the late 90's do have tendencies to go bad so that will need to be checked. The auto's in the cars are usually well up to snuff for the kind of driving this car was designed for, but sometimes can get neglected so just check for good feel and no burnt oil. Same as for any auto really. These cars are great for freeway cruising and have M117's which are good for duty as a DD and super tall ratio's for freeway driving (IIRC depending on the model it's between 2.72 and 2.27?). Though I'm probably a little biased... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JoeinCA Posted August 7, 2009 Share Posted August 7, 2009 Are you sure of the year? The r129 chassis SL (89-02) is actually a very nice platform. The cars perform well, and have a very comfortable, yet responsive ride. I havent personally driven the previous generation, r107, enough to make a judgement call. Overall, I like the way the pre 90s Mercedes are built and how they drive. Mercedes parts are very expensive though. klaupunktundi Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JoeinCA Posted August 7, 2009 Share Posted August 7, 2009 OH.. Yes, The wiring insulation was designed to be "green"(back in the 80s!). They use a biodegradeable insulation... which degrades well before the vehicle does. Germans are strange. Working on German cars can give you some insight into just how strange. If you buy the car, plan on having a tool box dedicated to just MB tools. Joe Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chaparral2f Posted August 7, 2009 Author Share Posted August 7, 2009 Great information as always. I'm going to go take a look at it on the weekend, and now I have an ideaas to what to check Thanks Je Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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