Vintage Cars: Mercedes SL convertible, menlo park ca, timing chains

Question
QUESTION:
Hi Ron.  My wife and I are interested in purchasing a late 70's / early 80's SL, but aren't sure what to look for.  Can you point us in the right direction?  Specifically,

1. Are there particular years that are better/worse?
2. Are there particular engines that are better/worse?
3. What gas mileage should we expect (we'd like better than 20 mpg)?
4. Are they relatively safe compared to today's cars?
5. Are they expensive to maintain?
6. What are the common problems of these vintage cars?
7. What should we expect to spend to get a 'turn-key' car?
8. Is there anything we should look out for when shopping for one?

Thanks so much for your help, Ron.  

Best regards,
Dave & Lucy
Menlo Park, CA


ANSWER: Howdy, the 72-89 V8 powered SL's all have great engines, that said there are some that are more finicky than others. Its best to avoid the 74 California, and 75-76 models,these typically have problems with excessive heat in the engine compartment and some polution control stuff that goes bad.  Also the 81 Sl's had single row timing chains and this, if not retrofitted with dual chains can spell trouble. Mileage near the 20's are typical of the later modles, early 70's 14, MPG at best.
Very very safe cars
If you buy one get the service history, this is very important, they are not high to maintain, unless they have not been maintained if you know what I mean
Turn Key - depends on year and condition, generally around 10K.
Run from rust, make sure all the tops are in good shape, always get service history.
I am rebuilding a 72 450 right now, I love the car
Let me know if you find one and I can help you a lot more by knowing specific year ,mileage ect.  good luck
Ron

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION:
Thanks, Ron.  We really appreciate the advice.  

We did a bit more research on our own and decided on the '86-'89 timeframe since airbags were available those years.  Can you offer any advice specific to those years?

We'll definitely stay away from rust and even take it to a Mercedes dealer for a checkup prior to purchasing.

Thanks again, Ron!  Have fun with the '72!

Dave & Lucy

Answer
Some would say those are the best years!. My only issue is the bumpers, they look a little big for me, but they had to meet federal regulations
In any respect , you will find these years with ABS,Air bags, anti theft alarm and back to dual timing chains.  the engines are still bomb proof and are 5.6 liter all alloy.  You may be able to find some 300Sl's for these years but most say they are underpowered. The 107  560SL
have quite a following and are well respected cars. Expect to pay in the mid to high  teens for a nice example.  Good luck, let me know what you find