Earlier SL's

[Skyedriver]

Looking at the earlier SL models, the ones around the 1980's rather than the very expensive first model pagoda roof cars. The 80's cars seem to sell around £7k - £9k and would seem very good value. Especially compared to say a Triumph Stag of the late 70' at similar money.
What are the earlier SL cars like to own, drive and generally live with?
Are the rear seats ok for kids, whats the mpg of the smaller engined cars.
How reliable, rusty etc.
Thanks
Tony H

[pneumothorax]

hi tony. i have had two of these cars, a 1981 280sl and my present motor, 86 280sl. they are imho great value. i have used both as daily drivers and i do lots of miles, not one and i mean any reliability issues. get a good one and they just dont let you down. both of my cars where pre abs models ie pre 1986, i think this is when they started galvanising them and so these later cars attract a premium price wise. and so the older ones do rust. i've gone for the smallest engine on both occasions since the bigger ones aint really that much quicker and so much harder on fuel...the 280 is fine as long as you leave the hard top at home, it weighs a tonne. back seats are nice but wont fit anyone in them. you'll probably find a recent thread here slagging these cars off a bit, however i am sure that the models longevity means merc got it right when they first introduced this sl, it ran from 1971-1989. feel free to pm me if you want more real life info/tips/advice.

[r129sl]

Pal of mine runs a 1982 500SL as his daily driver without problems and this is in London. It drives a lot like a modern car. Post-1986 cars (300, 420, 500) are even more modern.

[Skyedriver]

Thanks guys, it all sounded perfect until you said the back seats were no use for anyone to sit on. Young (2 y-o) son needs to be accomodated as well as small hound.
Still, think I will have a look at them in more detail, they look classy without being OTT, most look quite sound in wind and limb. Most also seem to be auto, is there a manual version and is it worthwhile. Not keen on autos.