Newbie SL280 Sought

[n/a]

First of all, I would like to thank all contributors to this website. Since I saw my first Pagoda (in the flesh), about 3 years ago, I was in awe. I have been visiting the forum on occassion to keep abreast of the Pagoda scene. Never have I come across so many genuinely helpful people in an online community. I hope to be able to contribute in the future.

Anyway, since I live in Aberdeen and everyone was so helpful to the chap looking for one in London, I thought I would try my luck since my SLK was written off last week.

Would we all agree that Mercseller.com is a great place to go? I have no mechanical knowledge nor would I know a car that has been filled from one that is in perfect condition. I need to know who to trust basically. Does the VIP service or the qualified inspections that can be done identify good from bad vehicles?

Basically, I want a 280SL in blue or metallic grey. As original as possible in pristine condition. Is £20-25 viable. Of course, a car that has had alot spent on it would be the dream. I am not getting into repairing one. I have neither the knowledge nor the patience.

Last but not least, and I'm sure that this is a dumb question - fuel...I believe an engine can be converted, is that ok? Expensive? If not converted, I guess we're using additives? For those users abroad, we have 95 octane standard unleaded in the UK.

Any helpful advice is appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Paul

Regards, Paulo

[Cees Klumper]

Hello Paulo - I am not aware of prices in the UK market, but from the time I was a member of the UK MB club, I recall seeing plenty of Pagodas advertized in their magazine in the price range that you indicate.

I would definitely recommend that you have a proper inspection performed on any car you are seriously considering buying. In my line of work (I am a charted accountant) we generally say: "trust is good, but verification is better".

Also, you don't need any conversion work done on the engine to be able to use modern fuels, without any additives.

Good luck on your search!

Cees ("Case") Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic

[keesing]

 
Be careful... I, like you, came to this site 6 or 8 months ago, knowing little except that I sure liked the way the old Pagodas looked as they sped down the highway! Well, then I started reading all of the posts, and seeing the enthusiasm of the members - oops... tomorrow I drive to Denver - to buy my 2nd Pagoda!!! That's right from a true novice to a COLLECTOR in a few short months! Mainly due to the guys on this site - helpful to a fault - and very generous with GREAT advice! The biggest lesson that I've learned is to read and head the advice they (we) give - it's from the heart! Good luck in your quest - LOOK EVERYWHERE!  

1967 250SL Signal Red
1969 280SL "Tweety Bird Yellow"
1987 260E Charcoal

[AGT]

Paulo

You will clock up a lot of air miles hunting for a good/great UK car in this price range and your best chance is from a Mercedes Benz Owners Club member retiring from Pagoda ownership. My view is that the UK specialist retailers are shockers - one is selling the ugly sister of my car for twice what he paid for it and three times what it is worth.  Another is offering totally restored cars for STG45,000 with sun visors trimmed in Munich nightclub red!

I wondered if you were thinking of using a Pagoda as a daily car in place of your SLK. I don't think that this is realistic in Scotland as the shrapnel road salt would kill it inside 12 months. While it is true that these cars need to be driven, rust is a huge problem (almost on a par with the W210 E-class) and you can almost feel them dissolve in the rain.

If you find a car you must get a specialist appraisal. I would highly recommend Paul and Stefano Mazzoni at Merparts in Port Glasgow. They have most of the Scottish Pagodas on their books and know these cars very well. They have turned the wreck which I bought into a pretty decent car and transformed the way it drives.

I live in Edinburgh and will shortly be "long" on Pagodas. You are welcome to pop down for a try before you buy spin and poke around to see if Pagoda ownership really is for you before you embark on the long hunt. I am off to the sun for a couple of weeks but e-mail me next month todd491@btinternet.com.

Regards
Andrew

[n/a]

Gents,

Many thanks for your advice. Especially regarding fuel, people to trust in Scotland and offer of a look at the Pagoda in Edinburgh.

I'll get ahold of the Gazette and start my search their.

CRazy idea I know, but I'm off on my stag night next week to Las Vegas. Anyone know if I can hire a W113 there? Seems you can do pretty much anything you like over there!

Regards
Paul

Regards, Paulo