Got that itch again

[chrisf-1]

Hi again everyone my merc itch has come back again and I am thinking of scratching it with a soft top either an early w209 or a an R129 can anyone confirm that the rust problem ended with the W208 and also let me know which year the R129 sl280 changed from straight 6 to V6 and what are the pros and cons for either thanks Chris

 

[Terry_]

The rust problem never ended with the 208. It ended with the 209 in 2004. The r129 got a V6 in 99 I believe ?
Totally different cars IMHO. Drive both and see what you think!
If it were my choice (and its not I know) I would go for a 129.
They are right up there with my favourite mb cars and still alarmingly reasonable considering the build quality

 

[chrisf-1]

Thanks for your opinion and I do agree but a W209 which i have never owned looks a lot of car I like the R129 but they can be very impractical or at least my last one was anyway nothing i am committed to any other tips on what to look out for on both in case i can find a post 05 W209 or a R129

 

[Terry_]

So you want a 209?
Yep they are nice cars.
Be prepared to rebuild the front suspension every few years. And if you buy one with a 271 engine make sure its been well maintained and get the timing chain renewed if its over 70 k.
I'm out

 

[chrisf-1]

what is a a 271 engine?

 

[Terry_]

It's the 4 cyl supercharged engine. Good little lump but only with maintenance!
The 220 646 engine is fantastic but not available in cabriolet form.
If you want a really sweet revvy V6 you have the option of the 272 engine ( I love them), but they had a balance shaft defect on early models which is rather expensive to repair .
If you want anymore advice off the forum I'd be happy to have a quick chat tomorrow between 1-2pm.
0208 863 9233

Regards

Terry

 

[Reggie-rock]

I am on my second W209 a late 2004 and my present 2006 convertible both of which have been completely rust free and are great cars.

 

[tanuie]

i am on my second w209 a late 2004 and my present 2006 convertible both of which have been completely rust free and are great cars.

+1

 

[Ted]

+2
Go with all of the advice above and buy on condition and toys and you won't go far wrong.
AMG sport pack makes such a difference on the lighter cars and adds the fantastic multicontour seats among other things and is well worth paying extra for.
You won't be disappointed.

 

[chrisf-1]

Hi again everyone i am arranging hopefully to view a 2004 320 clk cab this week with all the toys, anywhere i should pay particular attention to when viewing as it is a private sale so no returns or warranty it is showing 135k all running singing and dancing thanks Chris

 

[Ted]

Check the roof works as it should. Several times. These are pretty complex pieces of kit, and whilst fairly reliable there is plenty to go wrong.
Check loads of rubber on the tyres.
They can be pricey
Check youcan't hear clicking behind the dash when first turned on.
Check when the plugs were last changed there are twelve and replacement isn't easy or cheap.
Check everything electrical works
Check there is no rust on the wheelarches. You should be ok but best to be sure.
The 320 is a lovely engine and imho suits the clk perfectly.
Good luck!

 

[chrisf-1]

Hi again everyone the car did not impress maybe taking it up a notch what is the opinion on this Mercedes-Benz CLK 350 Elegance convertible 55 plate 135k full history