Which Mercedes-Benz SL should I buy?
Thinking of buying a 1996 P-reg Mercedes-Benz SL600 as fun Summer car in addition to my Subaru 3.0 Outback, price c £11k, 70k miles with history, some but not all main dealer. Car has had new hood about five years ago.
Does a car of this age pre-date all the chronic Merc problems which seemed to be centred on rusting bodywork and wonky electrics or am I likely to end up cursing being seduced by wistful thoughts on a cold February evening.
I had also considered spending considerably more on a 2003 SL500 but thought that might really be asking for trouble given the reputation of Mercs of that era.
P.S Have looked at your Review section and noted problems such as footwell etc
Does a car of this age pre-date all the chronic Merc problems which seemed to be centred on rusting bodywork and wonky electrics or am I likely to end up cursing being seduced by wistful thoughts on a cold February evening.
I had also considered spending considerably more on a 2003 SL500 but thought that might really be asking for trouble given the reputation of Mercs of that era.
P.S Have looked at your Review section and noted problems such as footwell etc
Asked on 5 February 2011 by O.X.
Answered by
Honest John
Likely to be a total nightmare.
Yes, avoid the 2003 SL500.
They came good in 2006, then received a Frankenstein facelift two years later.
The 2006 - 2008 are the ones to go for.
Yes, avoid the 2003 SL500.
They came good in 2006, then received a Frankenstein facelift two years later.
The 2006 - 2008 are the ones to go for.
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Looks good and make you look rich. 2006 models with increased power vastly better cars. 388hp 500SL plenty fast enough and makes a nice noise.
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