107, tell me more....

[JimmyD89]

Most of my time here at BenzWorld is spent at the w126 forum...but I am considering purchasing a 107 roadster and would just like the run down on these cars. Are there any models to stay away from? I have heard of a timing chain issue with the early 380's.

What else do I need to look for on these cars when I test drive them? Leaks, noises etc... Which models will return semi-decent fuel economy?

Thanks

[page62]

Here's an article for you to read:
March 1994 Road & Track Article About the MB 107
Ignore the prices -- the article is 12 years old.

Basically, NONE of the R107's return semi-decent fuel economy. These are 2-ton cars! But the best of the bunch would be the 280 or 300SL gray-market 6-bangers.

[Djenka018]

or 560's as the best of the best...
If you worry of the fuel price in the country where the fuel price is the cheapest in the world than maybe you should consider purchasing your self a euro toyota with 900ccm engine... ;-)

[ProvingGrounds]

There's a whole book about the SLs
You can find it here: Mercedes-Benz Sl - Google Book Search

[Alkraut]

The 560SL maintains the classic body style of the original 350SL and 450SL but has many improvements. These include driver airbag, ABS brakes, great V8 engine and bullet-proof transmission. They also have improved seat bolsters and are very nice drivers. For the person who enjoys working on cars, these were designed to be repaired/maintained (for a lifetime) and lots of parts are available. 560SL's were built from 1986 through 1989. Mileage does not mean much if the car was well-maintained. Look for one with service records, and not driven in snow. Good Luck.

[JimmyD89]

Haha, a Toyota....!

Believe me I have 3 other older Mercedes and when I say semi-decent fuel economy, I mean over 12mpg! Shacking up at the gas station every other day is a pain in the ass!

I might look into the 560SL, thanks for the heads up guys. I think someone near me is selling a 420SL, are they decent? I assume they use the engine from the SEL...4.2L V8?

[vwnate1]

Great drivers but fuel economy ? ha ~ my 350SLC with manual tranny only gets me 14.+ MPG and that's when I'm being good ~ although these are not race cars , they're plenty of fun to canyon carve or just whistle along @ 120 MPH.....

Comfy buggers too ~ I have a bad back and I can spend all day behind the wheel

Lots of 280's around , the M-110 engine (6 banger) is very durable .

Look for rust ! they rust from the inside out so beware if you see bubbles along the rocker panels ~ get the car up on a hoist before you pay over $2,500.00 for one .

For a quick curbside rust test , simply jacl each corner of the car up using the stock jack found in the right corner of the trunk ~ if it groans or rips the jack stuff out of the body , run away .

[A&L's300SL]

IMHO any R107 from the updated range of 86-89 would be a good start.

Better corrosion protection, brakes, suspension, steering geometry, more modern handling as a start with the classic look thrown in.

So a 300, 420, 500 or 560SL with 560's being the standard in the US, anything else is a "grey" import but still worth cosidering.

My grey import 300SL is always commented at club events as it's a rare model in Australia.

Good luck with your search

[page62]

Originally Posted by JimmyD89

I think someone near me is selling a 420SL, are they decent? I assume they use the engine from the SEL...4.2L V8?

A 420SL is the most rare of all SL's. Just over a couple of thousand made. And they're even more rare over here because they were never officially imported. You're looking at a gray-market car.