Classic/Antique Car Repair/Mercedes 380SL

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Expert: - 7/25/2008


Question
Vern, I have a very general question.  I have an opportunity to purchase a l982-3 380 SL, 85,000 miles, well cared for however I am being told that this vehicle has a reputation for numerous and expensive repairs,  What do you think or what have you heard?

Answer
Hi Will:
I own a S420 Mercedes myself. And I got it at a steal because of the enormous expense these cars are in terms of repair. Factor in, that 85,000 miles is nothing for these cars. The engine, transmission and related major items are usually good for 200,000 to 300,000 miles! It's usually the small things that go wrong that can cost you a few bucks.
Not that you would have the same problems as I have, but here is my list and cost to-date.


1. Air Condition Compressor: $1900!
2. Radio Amplifier: $900!
3. Power Steering leak: $5 (A can of stop leak)
1995 Mercedes S420 with 168,000 miles (I purchased it with 128,000). I won't even begin to worry about major stuff until she hit 200,000. I don't drive she very much, so it will be years before that happens.

So, I've put about $3,000 into my S420 in about 3 years of use and 40,000 miles.

For a 1982-3 380 SL with 85,000 in very good condition, a good price would be between $12,000 to $15,000

If the owner has a full set of service records and can show the car was well maintained, you should get very good service from it.

Classic/Antique Car Repair

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Vern Bullock

Expertise

Visit my website at: http://www.classytransportation.com/ I can answer most questions about autos built in the 60's 70's and 80's. Specifically, Lincolns, Rolls Royces and the Excaliburs. Mechanical issues and technical questions are my expertise. I also have a general knowledge of most older automobiles. Keep in mind, I can only provide answers if the questions are very specific and complete. Without details, I can only speculate and that's not good for solving your problem.

Experience

I have owned and maintained Silver Shadows for over 10 years now. I find most mechanics and even Rolls Royce mechanics have very little knowledge about these automobiles. I have researched these cars in quite a bit of detail and can pretty much tell you what is wrong, if you can describe the behavior in detail. I have saved quite a few RR owners a lot of money and aggravation due to improper diagnosis. I am the owner of Classy Transportation, LLC a luxury limousine service specializing in antique cars, classic cars, vintage cars and exotic cars.

Organizations
Classy Transportation, LLC Limousine Service.

Publications
All around the Internet

Education/Credentials
I hold a BS degree in computer science and a MS degree in mechanical engineering.

Awards and Honors
I regularly compete at car shows and average around a dozen awards annually.

Past/Present Clients
See Web site at: http://www.classytransportation.com/

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