QuestionI just found a Mercedes 380 SL in great shape on a lot in Monterey, CA. It's a 1982 with 146K miles, both tops and $5995. It drives great. What should I be concerned about? Thanks so much.
AnswerOverall this is a solid car, the engine has been known to have some issues
For model year 1981, Mercedes substituted a lighter, more efficient all-alloy 3.8 liter V-8 for the old reliable iron-block 4.5-liter V-8. And along with it came trouble.
The engine has a single-row timing chain, which as the miles piles on, tend to stretch. Unchecked, the chain can jump its sprockets, causing pistons to collide with valves, leaving the 380SL owner facing a $6,000 repair bill. During 1984, Mercedes switched to a double-row chain and solved the problem.
At one time Mercedes did convert some of the early 380SLs, free of charge, to double row chain for some customers. I would verify if it has a double row, The only way to know if a car is converted is to take off the valve cover and look.
Converting one now is a $2500-$4000 proposition
Service records are a huge plus and look for rust, in trunk, and door sills.
The price certainly seems right, although it is on the low end of average, so there may be a reason.
Ask lots of questions, if you have a chance have an indepenent MB mech take a look for you.
Please let me know what else I can help you with. I love the SL's
Ron
