new project car w/pics

[chuck3fire]

My thanks to James Howard for the nice response. As requested I am posting some pictures as a preview of what I am about to start trying to  return to the SL community.Got these just before a winter storm so car not completely uncovered.
Someone wrote  that my mileage and vin were doubtful. While I have not been able to get under the hood I do have photo of the dash showing 61681 km on the odometer, or 38,326 miles. As you can see it is a Euro edition with limited rust to sill panels. The hood shows minor damage (as does the grille)and mis-aligned and the rear deck lid shows mis-alignment.The seats are apparently covered with vinyl covers. The body color is a light creme the hardtop matches the wheel covers. The headlights have been replaced with seal beams and one lens cover is cracked.
It also has a rear jump seat which I'm told is rather unusual. Comments?
My biggest job will be getting it running. it's been sitting since '83.
I will post more as I continue the project.
It was also mentioned that perhaps the cost would outweigh the end results. Does free make it a better deal? It was a gift from a relative.
Thanks to all that responded. I will be picking many brains in the months to come

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[Jonny B]

Welcome! We will be anxious to follow along with your efforts on bringing another Pagoda back to the road. Good luck and keep us all posted!

Jonny B
1967 250SL Auto

[seattle_Jerry]

"Does the cost out weigh the end results?" I guess it depends on what you see as the end result. You can't put a price on the fun of driving or working on the car.

If I were you, I wouldn't sweat the small details. Just make sure it runs, stops, and turns. Enjoy it as a driver, while slowly tinkering with it over time.

Jerry

1967 230SL Havana Brown Auto with A/C

[john collins]

Hi Chuck,
   I do not think that the cost will ever outweigh the end results if your goal is to just make a fun, drivable car.  If you set out to restore it to perfection, or as an "investment", you would be better off burying your money in the backyard...  If someone is trying to talk you out of taking on the project, make sure it is not because they want to help you get out of this tough situation by taking the car off of your hands.

   I came into my car inexpensively also, and I have enjoyed getting it mechanically sound, changed all fluids and filters, and then I have just driven it for the past year, while keeping a list of the things that I would do to it when the money and time aligned.

   These are great cars for just appreciating as a fun second vehicle.  They have a great shape and feel that even non-car people notice as special.  Having worked on other makes, Mercedes is a fantastic car to have and use.  It is not as fiddely fast as some Italian makes (quick but fragile feeling) and the comfort level certainly beats the hard, spartan sports cars of the same era.  

   Best of luck with the work, take your time, and just have fun with it.

Take care,

John

1965 230SL  white/black leather - power steering, Becker Mexico, kinderseat, fitted luggage