75-84 Mercedes SL - What to look for?

[hundleydavid]

Hi

I am looking to buy a Mercedes SL, between 1975 to 1986 year, probably more towards the 70's Version.

Does anyone have any pointers I should be looking for when viewing the car, or indeed information that is available?

Many Thanks

[Motown Junk]

One of these on my shortlist for next toy too

I've got a decent buyers guide in an old magazine at home can scan and PM it to you if you like.

In the meantime:

http://www.classiccarsmagazine.co.uk/buyingguide.p...

MB owners club helpful too

[Uhura_Fighter]

w107

Have a look through the links I provided in that thread. If there is anything specific then just ask me.

Check the engine noise, go for a drive in it, the autobox should be nice and smooth through the changes. It is a big v8 lump so expect the engine to will you to go faster.
Body work should have no, or very little rust, check through front wings where the plastic waist band runs, wheel arches should be solid, stay away from one fitted with chrome aches. Lift the bonnet and check around the battery and engine mounts. Check in and around the boot hinges. In the boot right handside there should be a compartment with jack wheel wrench etc.

All electrics should work as should vacuum central locking (including petrol cap) TRY THEM ALL

Look at the rag top and the area the hard top connects with windscreen and boot area.

You should expect a large history file on a car like this, old mots, service records etc.

HTH

[hundleydavid]

Thanks for the Info very useful.

Have had a very nice 280 sl 1981 offered to me. Full history and low miles. Was going to go for the 3 or 5 series , but is there really that much difference in the all? Its just a weekend sunshine car.

[vpr]

Check for rust nad then check for rust. Even the latter galvanised cars rust