I can buy and insure one of these (300, not a 560) for my first car.
One owner, full service history, never failed an inspection, 212,000 miles.
Most people buy a small hatchback, I saved up some cash so I can get something like this or a small sports car.
Should I do it?
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bump
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You should.
Sincerely,
A mercedes wizard.
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So it's a good idea for a first car?
I had a 560sel with 212k miles and shit would always break every week
that being said, it was a great car.
very comfy, very cool very italiano mafia gangster mobile
being a 300sel shouldn't be as much of a problem as a 560sel.
>verify if valve cover gasket(s) are leaking
>verify if there is any misfire
>these cars require specific spark plugs that are NON resistant in order to function properly gapped at .32
>if they are using your run-of-the-mill spark plugs from your local parts store, they can eventually cause misfire and grenade the headgaskets.
>check if there is any lights open, give it a test drive and verify if 3rd gear shifts into 4th properly. If it doesn't, it requires tranny fluid change.
>When doing an oil job, you HAVE to change filter as well to keep optimum performance.
any other questions?
Of course. Big, slow, lots of metal = safe, SUPER easy to work on, and you won't get as much shit from other people as you'd get in a geo metro.
Did you ever have to worry about theft or vandalism because the car is nice or do you think it is more low key?
I've heard that the build quality on these things is excellent, is that still true at 212k or are there rattles and looseness like other cars of a similar age?
The car I'm looking at has some minor rust that I could get repaired, it also has a rip in the driver's seat (not at a seam) is this worth it to fix these things or should I just buy one and save my pennies for a closer to concourse example?
Would you own another one?
Do you think it will make a 21 year old look stupid?
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I had my 560sel when I was 18, black on black, big exhaust and amg rims.
Old people like it, younger ones stare at you with either awe or straight "what the fuck this shit's ballin"
never had to worry about theft or vandalism I don't live in a ghetto.
that being said, I would cover the car anyways.
Build quality is SUPREME, no rattles or looseness (unless motor mounts are worn) you can balance a dime on the engine if everything's in order.
It was a great car, sure miss it.
These will go up in value in the next years.
If it rusts, get that checked, cancer flies really quick on this car, the boomers don't drive them in winter at all.
I would own another one maybe someday. Perhaps a 560sec if the price is right.
If you're a DIY, this car won't be a problem.
Be sure timing chain is in order as well as guide rails.
this car takes extensive maintenance but when it's in order it just runs and never dies.
That said and done, those were the years when Mercedes made bulletproof engine.
gee bill, two benzes
Sedan is worthless. Get a coupe.
Thanks for the help
I can't afford the coupe, and I think the sedan is very handsome.
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Cloth seats??
Not OP but what about a 1994 E320 with 101k odometer?
Will post pic in a few.
They were an option for fleet and diplomatic sales I believe
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>old car
>high mileage
If you have the pocket for it. They may be reliable but that doesn't mean small shit isn't going to break here and there. $100 here and $150 dollars there adds up pretty quickly. And just cause it passes inspection doesn't mean it's not a piece of shit. Just be weary and if you really want it I say go for it.
I hear you, the car does warrant looking at closely for problems.
you shouldnt, they are boring, dull to drive, but also confortable and pretty solid cars. its quality on a whole different level of today's standards.
but it just isnt a good car for a young guy, its not a drivers car, its something i would love to borrow from my father/grandfather and go for a drive, but i wouldnt buy one.
if you go for it make sure you wear a fedora.
Well my other options in my price range would be something like an SW20 or a 924
or alternatively a boring box like a volvo or passat, or some kind of euro hatchback