purchase tips for a 1982 500SL

[fiona]

Hi
First time user of this site. Having sold my CLK Cab I am now looking at a "classic" 1982 500SL which i have fallen in love with.
It will need a new brown hood.
Is there anything else i need to be looking out for?
Does anyone own one that can provide me with a review - ive looked all over the web and cannot find any info!
Does anyone know the mpg?
any help really appreciated !!!
thanks in advance!

 

[stats007]

Rust! and lots of it. Check everywhere - boot, soft top cover, under the rear seats, front foot wells - take the carpets up and look. Wheel arches also go - some people fit chrome covers so avoid - they also collect water themselves. Sills also a major point to look out for as water drains through them and they rust from the inside out (£1000s to repair). Another huge bill is if the drains under the heater blower have blocked and the plenum chamber has rotted - to repair properly the dash has to come out and again costs £1000s.

I take it it will be an auto? No-one buys a manual anyway. Check the gearbox for smooth changes and idle speed in P N & D - should not 'race' (£600 for a reconditioned one). Check for excessive play in the steering - could indicate a worn steering box (£250). Leather interior and interior trim can be expensive to replace - the hood you can get a new one fitted for £500 - plastic windows cost £250 to replace alone. Exhaust is £250 for a rear box - again check for holes / blowing etc.

In all - check everything! There are loads to choose from so don't buy the first 5 you see unless you're absolutely sure of its history. To be honest you'd be better going for a post '86 model which carries the final facelift - and the 420 is probably a better buy. Expect about 15 mpg from an early 500. If it rains - expect to keep it in the garage!

Parts are in plentiful supply, servicing varies drastically so look out for a good specialist. Join the Mercedes Benz Owners Club for £30 a year - you get discount on parts and classic insurance etc. The also have a Forum which is primarily for classic Mercedes, whereas this one seems to concentrate on the newer models.

www.mercedes-benz-club.co.uk


Good luck!