1994 sl280

[breakdownman]

hi all thinking of buying a 1994 sl 280. Are there any major things to look out for that goes wrong with these vehicles. I know a 280 is not the quickest of things but i just want a nice cruiser to keep for a while. thanks for any help.

 

[grober]

The R129 SL models are very robust cars but had weaknesses like all older cars especially if they havn't been looked after. look for evidence that money has been spent over the years to keep any car up to scratch.I would be looking at cylinder head gasket, engine wiring loom, softop and rollover bar condition and operation in particular, plus all the electrical gismos the ABS and ASR systems. It pays to do your research on these cars first before buying--there are lots of posts by expert owners on the forum about this if you do a search using say SL and R129.

 

[BTB 500]

The R129 is a heavy car (nudging 2 tonnes) ... the 280 did 0-62 in 10 seconds when new, and you're still only looking at 23 mpg combined.

The bigger engines don't have to work so hard, something to bear in mind when buying a 15 year old car (IMO).

I would personally avoid the 280 and look for a 320 at least.

On R129s generally you will find lots of info. via the search. Basically make sure the hood and all electrics work perfectly.

Good luck!

 

[IanA2]

As Bill says....go for a bigger engine.

 

[Druk]

And with that year of car be-it a 280 or a 320 you need to budget £600 for a new engine wiring loom unless you have documented proof of a recent replacement.