Mercedes 380sel do or don't?

"TheKingOfBirds" (TheKingOfBirds) 11/11/2013 at 15:48 • Filed to: None

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Seeking opinions on this car it would be on first car, around town duties. Haven't made contact with seller yet but it is an '82 with 148k. Asking 2200. Assuming it is running.

Doug DeMuro > TheKingOfBirds 11/11/2013 at 15:59

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These are cool cars, but it looks a bit rough. And it'll be a dog with that motor. Certainly worth driving, at the very least, if it's nearby.

TheKingOfBirds > Doug DeMuro 11/11/2013 at 16:06

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It's right down the street. It would be my son's first car so something that is safe (looks like a tank) a little unique (it's a Mercedes) and not very fast is exactly what I'm looking for.

Mr. Ontop, No Strokes, No Smokes...Goes Fast. > TheKingOfBirds 11/11/2013 at 16:29

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I've always loved those early 80's Mercs. Just something substancial in their styling.....I have to think that repairs are going to be a bear though.

TheKingOfBirds > Mr. Ontop, No Strokes, No Smokes...Goes Fast. 11/11/2013 at 16:48

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Are you talking cosmetic repairs? I don't think there will be any, and if his mom's genes have anything to say, there will be more dings and dents before he's through. If you're talking the cost of parts, well that is some info that will be taken to heart. I've been driving past this thing for years (and on sale for a few weeks) and there definitely is something cool about it.

Mr. Ontop, No Strokes, No Smokes...Goes Fast. > TheKingOfBirds 11/11/2013 at 17:17

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No, when I speak of costs, I mean engine transmission etc...body work doesn't count. When you are 16, who cares if it is pretty as long as it runs!

Doug DeMuro > TheKingOfBirds 11/11/2013 at 17:41

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Drive it!!!

TheKingOfBirds > Mr. Ontop, No Strokes, No Smokes...Goes Fast. 11/11/2013 at 18:54

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Anything specifically to look out for or just your typical 30 yr old German car issues?

Mr. Ontop, No Strokes, No Smokes...Goes Fast. > TheKingOfBirds 11/11/2013 at 19:11

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I'm probably not the guy to ask about that, but any 30 year old car is bound to have issues and the Mercedes parts and service are probably going to cost you a premium unless you are the kind of guy that can wrench on the car yourself. I'm the kind of guy that can do very basic stuff, after that, I am best at signing checks and letting someone who knows what they are doing, do the work.

SCR - The Soup Of The Day is Bread > TheKingOfBirds 11/11/2013 at 20:15

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That one looks rough. You should be able to find a 420/560SEL for about that price, in better shape. Speaking of which, realize that you would be paying repairs relative to its original price (~$70k) and not its current one. Also, MB specialist (because I ASSURE you the average mechanic won't have the necessary tools or experience) are pretty fucking expensive too. If you have the cash to pay for the repairs, find a better one and then sure, why not buy it? If your repair budget more closely resembles a Chevy Lumina's then, well don't buy an old luxury car. Just... don't.

My first car was a rough 1989 300CE. It wasn't THAT special when it was running right and was way too much money to fix things. Sold it and haven't had anything that isn't a USDM manufacturer since, since that's what my budget affords. Expect to pay AT MINIMUM double for repairs what you would, say, a Chevy Silverado.

TheKingOfBirds > SCR - The Soup Of The Day is Bread 11/12/2013 at 07:31

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Thanks for the info. I have a friend who is a pro diesel mechanic but I'm thinking right now I'll pass.

Rockchops > TheKingOfBirds 11/13/2013 at 15:49

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I've had 2 w126s and know them pretty well. Thats a bit expensive for what it is, given the paintwork and the mileage. You'll also want to make sure the transmission is in good shape with no slippage. Engine wise check to see that the timing chain has been either checked recently or replaced. Look for leaking/dried/cracked rear window and windshield seals, water in trunk, and especially rust around the jacking points and battery tray.

tl;dr get a diesel one :)

TheKingOfBirds > Rockchops 11/13/2013 at 18:50

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Thanks, thats useful. If you look through the windshield to the drivers side rear you can see some ugly mess in the window from leakage.

getchapopcorn > TheKingOfBirds 11/19/2013 at 20:42

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Right in the wheelhouse!