Considering a classic Mercedes Benz 1987 300SDL? You’re looking at a vehicle with a reputation for robust engineering, particularly its OM603 engine. With proper care, these cars can offer surprisingly reliable transportation even today. Mileage, such as 115,000 miles, is relatively low for this engine if maintained well, suggesting it’s barely broken in. To give you the best advice, knowing which cylinder head version is in the car would be beneficial, as later versions are known to be more durable, although even the original #14 head can be reliable with careful ownership.
One crucial aspect to understand about owning a Mercedes Benz 1987 300SDL is the necessity for proactive maintenance. These cars, especially the S-Class (W126) like the 300SDL, and even compared to the E-Class 300D (W124), have more complex systems. To keep running costs down, being willing and able to perform DIY maintenance is a significant advantage. If your priority is purely functional transportation and you can overlook cosmetic imperfections like faded paint or a cracked dashboard, you can indeed operate this classic Mercedes Benz 1987 economically. Investing in a car cover can protect the paint, while a dash cover can address cosmetic cracks without significant expense.
A critical area to thoroughly inspect on a Mercedes Benz 1987 300SDL is the climate control system. Malfunctions in heating or cooling can be more than just uncomfortable; repairs can be surprisingly costly. Ensuring this system is fully functional before purchase is highly recommended. Similarly, the sunroof, while a desirable feature, can be expensive and complex to repair, making DIY fixes challenging. If the sunroof isn’t working, it shouldn’t be a deal-breaker but rather a point for negotiation to potentially lower the asking price, and then perhaps something to live without.
Electrical issues, common in older vehicles, are generally manageable on a Mercedes Benz 1987. Many problems can be resolved, especially if you have some basic electrical knowledge. Used parts, such as relays, can often be sourced from junkyards at a fraction of the cost of new components. Interestingly, gasoline-powered Mercedes models from a similar era often share many parts and can be sources for spares as they are sometimes retired under programs like CARS.
Keep in mind that the 300SDL is longer than the 300D, making it slightly less agile and a bit more challenging to park in tight spaces. The S-Class designation means the Mercedes Benz 1987 300SDL comes with more features and gadgets compared to an E-Class. These can be appealing when operational, but can become points of concern if they fail and are costly to fix.
Finally, the asking price is a crucial factor. Assess the car’s condition in relation to its price, considering the potential maintenance and repairs discussed. With careful inspection and a realistic approach to maintenance, a Mercedes Benz 1987 300SDL can be a rewarding classic car ownership experience.
