Thinking about returning - SLK 320

[Vickster]

Hi all
I had an auto SLK 230 last summer which I never really got on with as I didn't like the transmission, the engine was a bit weedy and the lack of engine note was disappointing (having come from 5 cylinder Italian). I really like the shape and size of the car, the folding roof and driving position. I currently have a Focus ST170 which is nice enough but not exactly exciting

Now, I have seen a metallic blue / black leather X reg 2001 manual 320 for sale for £7k - few more miles than I would like at 92k, but it has FSH (MB & specialist), has had an aircon service and will have 2 new Michelins, 6 months tax, new MOT.

I would expect to get at least 3.5k for the Focus, so about the same on top. Does it sound like a good deal? It looks well priced based on other similar cars, the manuals are rare but seem to enjoy less of a premium than the autos. I would consider adding a sports exhaust to get a bit more from the V6

All and any advice welcomed

 

[DJC013]

Hello, i recently purchased a 2001 SLK 320 on a `Y` plate with 92000 miles. It had a full history (7 MB & 1 Specalist), drove nicely, and i paid £6150. Downsides were some rust on all 4 wheel arches, but a mate is going to do them for me. I would check the arches using a small mirror to look up (saves bending your neck), good luck with your purchase ! Regards Damian.

 

[Vickster]

Thanks for your reply


Is yours a manual or auto? Given my poor experience of the auto gearbox on the 230, I would rather a manual, but they are a bit like hens' teeth and certainly within 60 miles of here for that price

There are a few cheaper cars out there, but most seem to be silver (so so dull for any car, no offence to anyone). This one is from a independent dealer (mainly a BMW specialist) and would come with 6 months warranty (for £7k, I would be asking for a year). Sound good?

thanks for the tip on the rust - I have been warned that pre-2004 Mercs have corrosion issues - true? Not aware of anything on the 230 I had

 

[wemorgan]

£7k for a 2001 dealer car sounds fair to me.

When is it next due a service?

What month was it registered? If it was post March 2001 you will pay VED bassed on the CO2, which i think will be more expensive than the old cc system.

When making the deal, don't tell him/her you wanted a manual. Usually most people want an auto, so make out you're doing him a favour taking the manual off his hands.

 

[Vickster]

It had the B service 1000 miles ago apparently and the dealer will do a full check (hence the new tyres and ac service)...so I assume no service needed for a year. He will put an MOT on it and I am going to ask for a 12 month warranty

It was registered 31 Jan 2001, so cheaper tax :bannana:

I did mention that I wanted the manual (the auto transmission was quite a big factor in me selling the 230), he said he had already taken £500 off the price (if auto, he would have been looking for £7500). I will obviously strike as good a deal as I can. May have someone interested in the ST170 too but will see what he'll do p/ex

Not that I wanted an auto, but this looked like a good deal too, mileage wise...ah well http://www.charlesofwindsor.co.uk/view.asp?ID=2402

 

[DJC013]

Thanks for your reply


Is yours a manual or auto? Given my poor experience of the auto gearbox on the 230, I would rather a manual, but they are a bit like hens' teeth and certainly within 60 miles of here for that price

There are a few cheaper cars out there, but most seem to be silver (so so dull for any car, no offence to anyone). This one is from a independent dealer (mainly a BMW specialist) and would come with 6 months warranty (for £7k, I would be asking for a year). Sound good?

thanks for the tip on the rust - I have been warned that pre-2004 Mercs have corrosion issues - true? Not aware of anything on the 230 I had

Hello, my car is an Auto, the rust on the arches is hard to see unless you actually look up into the arch itself. Agree with you about silver, i wanted a different colour as well, black was next on my list ! Regards Damian.