Merc SL; R107

[The Ringmeister]

I am thinking about one of these as a summer run around; i have found a couple of 420 SL's, one is late 1970's, the other is 1986 and the face lift model. The condition and and price are comparable but does the later car have substantial revisions to make it a better car. I prefer the more classic looks of the 1970's car.

[r129sl]

420SL only available from MY1986 (i.e. late 1985).

Late-70s car is likely a 350 or 450.

There are substantial differences. I too prefer the outward appearance of the pre-facelift cars. However, post-85 cars have significantly upgraded brakes and suspension as well as more modern and fuel efficient engines and transmissions. Post-85, you'll likely have ABS and maybe even an airbag. Modern tyres are also more widely available at competitive prices for the facelifted model. The early cars also have a high (or is it low?) final drive, meaning you're pulling about 3,500rpm at 70mph: a bit busy.

Until 1980, they had three speed autos which I suspect are a bit sluggish from the off. Also, until 1980, the engine was iron block and so much heavier than the alloy motors which came in 1980.

[The Ringmeister]

r129sl said:

420SL only available from MY1986 (i.e. late 1985).

Late-70s car is likely a 350 or 450.

Apologies, you right the early car is a 450SL. do you have any ideas of what the difference in power,torque etc is between the 450 & 420?

[r129sl]

From memory 450SL develops 225bhp and 279lb/ft at 5,000 and 3,750 respectively. 420 develops 218bhp (in Sl guise, more in the S-Class), can't remember torque output but about 240lb/ft. The 420 will feel smoother and faster than the 450, all else being equal, because it has a 4speed box.

Buy on condition alone. Not mileage, not colour, not spec, certainly not power outputs.

[ClaphamGT3]

Also, anything pre MY 1987 will not be galvanised & will be surprisingly rust-prone (look particularly at rear foot wells & sills)