Discussion
I’m thinking about a 500SL as my next daily driver. At my budget I’ll be looking at a 2001 / 2002 car. Whilst the SL is not my perfect car it appeals mainly on value for money and the hard top / convertible combo. It’s a decent all rounder for a single bloke like myself. I’ve already discounted the 350. I figured if I am going to get an SL it will be the full fat V8. I would appreciate more info on the following.
1. What is the reliability / build quality like. I know mercs from the 80’s and before had legendary build quality but this has not been carried forward to their newer models.
2. What is a likely real world MPG for a mixture of urban and rural driving?
3. Servicing and repairs. Am I going to need a second mortgage? What are the service intervals and what can I expect to pay?
4. Performance and handling. I’m not expecting it to drive like a Caterham but how does it compare to an XK8, 911, current BMW 6 series, etc.
Thanks and all the best.
Martin.
1. What is the reliability / build quality like. I know mercs from the 80’s and before had legendary build quality but this has not been carried forward to their newer models.
2. What is a likely real world MPG for a mixture of urban and rural driving?
3. Servicing and repairs. Am I going to need a second mortgage? What are the service intervals and what can I expect to pay?
4. Performance and handling. I’m not expecting it to drive like a Caterham but how does it compare to an XK8, 911, current BMW 6 series, etc.
Thanks and all the best.
Martin.
I am guessing that 2001/2002 you mean an R230 and not the previous model!
Anyway - great car - we have a 2003 SL500 - an unbercool cruiser and since we got it (18 months and 30000) miles our average mpg is 26.4 which aint bad!
In terms of reliability you could only be described as suicidal if you didnt buy one with an MB Warranty although the max age (I believe) is 5 years old from date of registration - so getting one that old with an MBW would be difficult.
In terms of build quality IMHO - its fabulous!
Although we have had a couple of issue with ours - its been great - main items for consideration - struts if you have ABC and propshaft - MB will be replacing ours for a second time later this year as there has been a horrible wobble throughout the whole car at speed. Also replced the fuel tank as they are prone to dislodge a grommet or something that rattles around!
Electrics - Good - no worries
Drive Train - Good - streering joints need looking at
Brakes - bomb proof
roof mechanicals - super
setas and interior - bomb proof
All IMHO
enjoy - khushy
PS - BE SURE TO DRIVE IT AT SPEED UP THE MOTORWAY - IF IT VIBRATES - WALK AWAY - THERE ARE 100's around
Anyway - great car - we have a 2003 SL500 - an unbercool cruiser and since we got it (18 months and 30000) miles our average mpg is 26.4 which aint bad!
In terms of reliability you could only be described as suicidal if you didnt buy one with an MB Warranty although the max age (I believe) is 5 years old from date of registration - so getting one that old with an MBW would be difficult.
In terms of build quality IMHO - its fabulous!
Although we have had a couple of issue with ours - its been great - main items for consideration - struts if you have ABC and propshaft - MB will be replacing ours for a second time later this year as there has been a horrible wobble throughout the whole car at speed. Also replced the fuel tank as they are prone to dislodge a grommet or something that rattles around!
Electrics - Good - no worries
Drive Train - Good - streering joints need looking at
Brakes - bomb proof
roof mechanicals - super
setas and interior - bomb proof
All IMHO
enjoy - khushy
PS - BE SURE TO DRIVE IT AT SPEED UP THE MOTORWAY - IF IT VIBRATES - WALK AWAY - THERE ARE 100's around
Edited by khushy on Thursday 29th January 12:59
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