230SL insurance value

[mbpaul]

1966 Mercedes 230SL, USA version, 4 speed, horizon blue, both tops, no a/c

I do not want to sell the car.  I just want opinions on what value should be placed on the car for insurance.   It is a one owner.  My wife and I bought the car new in 1966 and it now has 54,000 miles on it.  It has spent it entire life in New Mexico so it is a desert car with absolutely no rust, now or anytime during it lifetime.  I am getting it professionally painted and it should be done in about a week.  All rubber has been replaced with Classic Center rubber.  The front suspension and drive train were rebuilt less than 1000 miles ago.  New Classic Center turn signal lever, new fuel tank about 3 years ago.  No rips, tears, cracks, discoloration in MB Tex upholstery or dash board vinyl.  Other interior parts in great condition.  The clock even keeps time.  Blue soft top had not seen the light of day for over 30 years and when we looked at it getting ready for painting, it is hard to believe but it looked almost like new!  Engine is runs great, no problems.

Using the Hagerty scale, it is not a 1, not quite a 2, but I believe it is better than the usual 3.  A good 113 eye will find a few things that are not “correct” but not many and nothing serious.  Examples:  Hankook whitewall tires, Blaupunkt Frankfurt mono radio, incorrect battery.

So, what insurance value should I place on the car?  Your thoughts would be appreciated.

[Rolf-Dieter ✝︎]

Paul,

You will be the east person to answer that question. Just ask yourself "if I was to sell the car next year waht would I be looking for or let it go for" or "what if the car is stolen what would I expect the insurance company to reimburse me for it"

Then insure the car for that amount.

My insurance coverage for May 2013 to 2015 was $48K, in 2013 I was offered in Wiliamsburg during a concourse on the green car show $70K y a Texas Milonare and an air ticket home (my car won 2nd place Peoples Choice at that car show). My car also won two 1st place recognishions localy one on a concourse in Toronto and one was 1stin it's class. So for 2015 to 2016 I increased my coverage to $80K and. Left it at that value for 2016 to 2017. From your description I think my car is in similar shape then yours.

This should help you somewhat, however, post some picturesof your car (exterior and interior), perhaps others might shime in with there opinion, it is hard to make a judgement/estimate just by a description.

Also, no two cars are the same.

Cheers,

Dieter

[mbpaul]

Thanks for your comments.  One of my problems is that we have had the car so long that is is a part of the family.  I cannot imagine not having the car.  When the car comes back from the paint shop, I will post pictures.  It should be in about a week.

[Jordan]

Paul, get an experienced and qualified appraiser to give you a written valuation, something you can take to your insurance company.  Actually, I am surprised they haven't asked for one.  The appraiser should provide you with a comprehensive written condition report, including pictures and then a valuation.  Then if something does happen to your car you have a written appraisal instead of fighting with your insurance co putting a value to the car.  You should have this done fairly regularly since the value of these cars has been changing so much in the last few years.

[Mike Hughes]

Many North American M-B dealers ordered 230SL and other M-B models with no radio back in the day.  The Blaupunkt AM-FM mono radio was a period correct dealer installation - it even came with correct matching knobs.  Reproduction period style black case batteries are available if pricey, M-B Classic Center offers a modern style OEM replacement battery as well. 

[mbpaul]

Got it back from the paint shop.  Looks fantastic!  More pictures later.

[stickandrudderman]

Great colour!