[Snibble]

mercedes lady - 8/9/2005 11:32 AM

Hello everyone! We are very impressed with the knowledge on this board after browsing for the last few days. My wife (mercedes lady) has a renewed interest in MB's having owned 3 in her travels. I am a gear head at heart but don't know much about the big kahunas only that they are beautiful. We are interested in a 560SEL up to 1991. We have been looking at the cars on ebay for ideas. What year did they start putting overdrives in the big sedans? I noticed the motors are all aluminum since at least 1987? Any problems with the early cars (1985-1991) as far as the alum blocks go, porosity, electrolysis, etc? Any other areas to pay attention to? We are looking forward to the hunt and to getting educated before we commit. Thanks for any input you can provide.
ML and Kato

Welcome...

The w126 chassis (560SEL model) were produced from 1986 to 1991. There never was an "over drive". The transmission is a 4-speed automatic that starts in 2nd gear unless you push down on the pedal where it kicks down to 1st gear. The engines from 1986-1991 where pretty much the same, just some minor part improvements in the later years.

My suggestion is to find a 1989 to 1991 model. These have a much better interior thats been redesigned and offer a passenger airbag. The only downside is that you give up the glove box compartment for the roll top case that fits between the front seats. When looking for a 560, get the best one you can afford. Make sure its got a good maintenance record keeping list and before purchasing have it checked out by a mercedes knowledgable mechanic. Good luck on the hunt!