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Mercs and spender

On reaching the ripe old age of 65 I promised myself that I would investigate the possibility of purchasing a classic car - a Mercedes convertible perhaps - to brighten my Autumnal years.

So, as I rapidly approach this landmark age, I have started looking through appropriate websites, but it seems the more I browse the more I enter this whirlpool of bewilderment -"1986 B420 SL or 1994 SL320" - "the elegance & history associated with the older '80's models or the reliability & sophistication of a youthful 1998 SL280 auto" - "mileage, insurance, repairs...." the list goes on.

I am very serious about this project and would appreciate any advice/guidance you could pass on to me. I'm not planning to do a high mileage in it, but, on the other hand, I don't want to treat it as an ageing aunt and only take it out on high days and holidays,

Asked on 10 September 2011 by DP, via email

Answered by Honest John
A friend recently bought a 1999 W129 SL320 V6 and is very happy with it. I’d avoid the ‘ribside’ W107 SLs from 1972 to 1988. But I would also consider a W124 Mercedes E320 Sportline convertible, 1993 - 1996 and get the benefit of four seats.

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