Crazy, impossible future project idea?

[Nick M3]

Originally Posted by robg

Interesting- what were some of the changes that were made in the interest of "value engineering"? I supposed by the late 90s (with the introduction of the W210), MB was well on their way to cost cutting. But I hadn't really considered how/if it affected some of their older over-engineered models still in production

IN reading the article, it reminded me that some high end German cars from this era had a power rear view mirror. I dont think any current vehicles have this feature anymore. I think the e34 540 also had it iirc.

They cut the price dramatically for, I think, '99. They cut it so dramatically that they they gave my Mom a $15,000 "store credit" for her next Mercedes. The most noticeably change was that they went from a noticeably nicer 4 valve V8 to a 3 valve and eliminated the 6 cylinder. I don't know when the suspension got softened up, but I wouldn't be surprised if that happened at the same time.

The VE doesn't matter so much for the V12, which traded at a gigantic premium.

[Nick M3]

Originally Posted by FC

I recall you mentioning that before. I do not remember what year that started.

I must admit that I am a sucker for the 1997+ facelift and AMG kit.

I believe that '97 to '98 are the best V8 years. I don't know what matters for the V12. You'd presumably be replacing all the suspension parts.

You need to make sure that you are past the biodegradable wire harness years.

[FC]

Originally Posted by Nick M3

You need to make sure that you are past the biodegradable wire harness years.

Yes, I did know about that.

[JST]

Originally Posted by FC

Yes, I did know about that.

FC, did you see this one?

https://bringatrailer.com/listing/19...-benz-sl600-5/

Closes in 6 hours.

[Nick M3]

If only it was a better color.

[FC]

Originally Posted by JST

FC, did you see this one?

https://bringatrailer.com/listing/19...-benz-sl600-5/

Closes in 6 hours.

Yes, I did see that. I agree with Nick. I wish the color were a bit more fun. I've always loved the very rare navy blue. Then again silver is classic and hides defects. Speaking, off, that paint is not in great shape - particularly the hood. The rear bumper needs a respray.

But overall, it looks like a very clean car. I think it would be a great deal at under $10k.

EDIT: I do strongly hate those wheels and particularly that they are chrome, but that's ok and easy (though pricey) to correct.

EDIT #2: The commenters make good points re: the raised hood on driver's corner and the lack of videos about it running, the top operating properly, etc.

[JST]

Originally Posted by FC

Yes, I did see that. I agree with Nick. I wish the color were a bit more fun. I've always loved the very rare navy blue. Then again silver is classic and hides defects. Speaking, off, that paint is not in great shape - particularly the hood. The rear bumper needs a respray.

But overall, it looks like a very clean car. I think it would be a great deal at under $10k.

EDIT: I do strongly hate those wheels and particularly that they are chrome, but that's ok and easy (though pricey) to correct.

EDIT #2: The commenters make good points re: the raised hood on driver's corner and the lack of videos about it running, the top operating properly, etc.

Yes, they do. But at the same time, you're talking about pretty radical surgery on the car, so getting one at a discount that has a few potential issues isn't the worst thing in the world--particularly if it turns out not to have those issues.

[FC]

Originally Posted by JST

Yes, they do. But at the same time, you're talking about pretty radical surgery on the car, so getting one at a discount that has a few potential issues isn't the worst thing in the world--particularly if it turns out not to have those issues.

I don't disagree. At this point I am not committed enough to this project, so if I were to jump on an opportunity, it would have to be a car nice enough to keep in original condition.

What would be ideal is an otherwise perfect car with major transmission and exhaust issues.

[FC]

Hmmm...

Still at $7800 with less than an hour to go.

[FC]

At 8k this is really tempting. I eve signed up to get ready to bid. But there is enough sketchiness to think this car may have some skeletons and there is evidence that car has had some instances of contact. Too many slightly misaligned panels, etc.

These cars are expensive enough to fix that I think I rather spend $18k for cherry example at a more appropriate time. I mean, just getting the proper wheels/tires will cost ~$3k.