The overriding point being that it's of the highest importance to have an inspection of the car by a professional, or your personal inspection if you are in the know. Many people search this forum for info when they are interested in purchasing one of these cars, and some ask questions. Ebay and long distance deals of all sorts are popular for many new buyers because these cars are not located on every block. These cars come in a wide range of states of disrepair and excellence. Perhaps strongly cautioning people to be aware of and take care of problems before they buy a w113 is the most useful information to publish regarding this common situation. This is the point.
Responsible buyers become happy owners. Happy owners are the ones that own and keep these cars in good states of repair and on the road.
I apologise for advocating responsibility and stressing the importance of knowing what you're getting before you buy. I am sorry, but as a buyer of cars I believe the responsibility rests on the shoulders of the buyer as he contemplates writing out that check.
I for one will never let myself be burned again by those dealers/sellers out there that are dishonorable and selling to buyers from long-distance or whatever the situation. Have bought many cars since and have inspected every square inch and weighed exactly what I felt it was worth. Each disappointment is a learning opportunity.
Practically speaking, with the purchase of antique automobiles, it is very difficult to fight on misrepresentation of condition, or expectation as it really is. Also, a lawyer might help (unlikely, and at a cost of $$$$) in this case, but a lawyer can not help him be a more informed buyer and enthusiast and have success if he tries to buy another w113 or other antique-ish car. Only education and diligence will.
I was quite relaxed about purchasing a w113 and did little research, mostly because w113 are comparatively common cars and do not cost as much as the others. But I got very lucky, I think. I was very unlucky with another older Alfa. But now the more I learn about this model the more I believe that I will be more uptight about inspection if I should buy another, just as uptight as when buying a classic Aston Martin (very uptight), or other comparatively rarer car. The systems are complex, and the pitfalls many. Fortunately we have a ready supply of spares for most of the car should we need it.
The more a buyer learns about these cars, or any other cars, other Mercedes, Astons, etc, the more that the buyer will be able to spot problems and inconsistencies with eBay ads (notorious) and other ads and also when inspecting/testing the cars in the flesh.
Again, let the *smart* buyer beware, and don't count on the busted, irrational and expensive legal system to bail you out. Know what you are buying, never trust photos, never trust an eBay auction without supplemental evidence, never trust an advertisement without supplemental evidence - this is what I think is helpful to stress.
Nothing wrong with approaching the purchase of a home the same way, or a new automobile. This has been my advice on these matters every single time.
1967 230SL
