70's & 80's SL advice please

[Mart-1]

I've always liked the look of SL's from the 70's & 80's and am looking to buy one as a long term keeper, for pleasure use only. I don't know if there are preferred models but I seem to have 280/300 SL's in mind. The lighter, less thirsty V6 engines appeal to me, but am ideally looking for the best collectible classic SL if engine size dictates one over another - are they all held in equal regard or is one seen as the 'best' model?

I'd aim to buy the best example I can find as it seems to work out cheaper long term. I've seen a few SL's on various websites and the price range is quite a wide spread, with higher mileage cars going for £8-£10k, up to around £25k

I know very little about SL's and would appreciate any advice on any particular issues to watch out for beyond corrosion and condition of the soft top, and who to contact for a PPI (I aim to buy in the South East / Midlands, so would be keen to know of any SL specialists)

Thanks

[r129sl]

If you search, you will find this topic has been covered ad nauseam. You will also find this specialist very helpful and its website very informative: www.theslshop.com

Buy on condition. They are all thirsty. None has a V6, only I6 (280 and 300) and V8 (350, 380, 420, 450 and 500).

Edited by r129sl on Wednesday 29th August 15:38

[Mart-1]

Many thanks for the link - looks very useful

I tried a PH search before I posted and I came up with nothing - will try again using some other search words and see what I can turn up

[r129sl]

Try "r107". In fairness, the Pistonheads search facility is almost useless.