Archive for Mercedes
Theme Week: Winter Olympics of SUVs
Since our first theme week was such a success and fun. We are doing another round. This week we are thinking about the Winter Olympics. Heavy snow, cold temperatures, rugged terrain, all things you would associate with the Winter Olympics. Lastly, of course, you have your highly tuned, trained, athletes at the top of their game, ready to tackle tough conditions.
We think that this can be a pretty easy comparison to the top dogs (St. Bernards perhaps?) of the luxury, performance SUV, category.
So be on the lookout this week for Teutonic trucks.
To start things off here is a silly video of a pair of Mercedes G55s pulling a C63 through some snow. Something is slightly off with this video, be it lack of snow tires, lack of driving skill, lack of something.
~Evan
1995 Mercedes-Benz E320 Coupe
With the reintroduction of the Mercedes-Benz E Class Coupe for 2010, let’s take a moment and pour over its direct forebear. Here is a clean, relatively low mileage 1995 E320 coupe, which represents the final year of production for the W124 chassis. According to The Standard Catalog of Mercedes-Benz, only 1,798 Coupes were produced for 1995, which was amazingly higher than production was in 1994. While there were less W124 Convertibles produced during the same time frame, open top versions seem easier to find in mint condition and appear to change hands rather frequently, given the short supply. Powered by the ubiquitous M104 3.2 liter inline six, this coupe is capable of providing many more miles of effortless, reliable transport.
1995 Mercedes-Benz E320 Coupe in Hemmings
The seller states:
1995 Mercedes-Benz E320 Coupe, 88K, Black/ grey leather. Never smoked in, southern car, always garaged, no rust, mint condition. Clean CarFax. Cost new $63K.
Upon seeing this ad, I had a suspicion that $14,500 seemed high for an asking price, but I had not looked up the value of W124 coupes lately. Sure enough, after consulting three pricing sources, Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book and NADA, my suspicions were correct. High retail value from these three pricing services was $5,086, $7,150 and $8,912 respectively. Granted, the ad is not very descriptive and there is no telling whether the car is fully documented or if it is an original owner vehicle. If this were the case, I could see the value of this creeping more towards the $10,000 mark, given the mileage and the fact that you don’t see these on the market every day. All of this aside, it is nice to see a well preserved, late model W124 coupe out there, as these cars are simply timeless.
-Paul
Cheap 2006 Mercedes-Benz C55 AMG Hot Rod
The idea of stuffing a big V8 into a small sedan has always sat well with me. Here’s a great example of what I’m talking about.
In 2005 Mercedes decided to ditch the blown 3.2 L V6 living in the C32 AMG in exchange for the 5.4 L V8 out of the W210 E55. 362hp and 378 lb-ft of torque will generally produce clouds of white smoke in any size automobile. In a small sedan like the C-Class it also equates to 0-60 in less than 5 seconds.
Depreciation has hit these Hot Rods pretty hard, 2006 MSRP was somewhere around $55K. 4 years and 56,000 miles later, KBB believes this 06’ AMG should fetch almost 22K. Luckily for the buyer, the owner is only looking for a measly $18,000!
More proof that big things can come in small (and affordable) packages.
2006 Mercedes-Benz C55 AMG in LA
-Ben
Clean, low mileage, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 560SEC
The 560SEC was not a common car to begin with, as just a little over 5,000 were produced for the 1989 model year. In total, during its entire production run, almost 29,000 were produced. Considering Toyota makes over 400,000 Camrys a year, this kind of gives you a perspective on just how rare these W126 coupes are. Finding a clean one these days proves to be quite a challenge, however, there are still some out there. Take for instance this example, which has evaded the harsh Northeast climate, advertised in Hemmings Motor News:
1989 Mercedes-Benz 560SEC on Hemmings
The seller notes:
1989 Mercedes-Benz 560SEC, Desert Taupe mettallic / Creme beige leather. FLAWLESS, only 48,000 documented miles. Spectacular original paint, clearcoat, glass. Impeccable interior, carpet, wood trim. Fully sorted by obsessive owner and his German born Mercedes (only) mechanic. NEW: A/C compressor, condenser (conversion to R134), water pump, valve cover gasket, brakes (rotors & pads), wheel bearings, tires, alignment, sway bar linkage, window regulators, steering shock, headrest guides. All electronics work perfectly including orginal Becker radio, sunroof, seatbelt extenders, antenna. Remote locking, alarm, 6 disc CD changer. Beautiful!
I haven’t seen one of these for sale with under 50,000 miles for a while, so $22,900 seems pretty fair, especially if it as well documented as the seller describes. This is a lot of car for the money, especially considering this was the most expensive Mercedes-Benz for sale in 1989.
-Paul
2005 Mercedes-Benz E55 wagon
After the glut of minivans and sport utility vehicles that have flooded the automotive landscape over the last two decades or so, the wagon, or estate vehicle, has become an afterthought in many people’s minds. Mercedes, however, has shown a steadfast commitment to the body style, as they have offered a wagon in their lineup every year for the past 32 years. Below is an example of how perfectly Mercedes-Benz blends style, performance and utility in one irresistible package.
The E55 wagon attained almost instant classic status when Mercedes announced they would be selling it here on U.S. shores, because everyone knew it had no equals and was meant as a limited production model. The E55 and E63 which followed accounted for a few hundred sales across the U.S. during it’s production run. Not many family haulers can brag about sharing a supercharged V8 engine with the legendary Mercedes-Benz SL roadster.
The seller states:
One of 129 (verified with Mercedes AMG Private Lounge – I’m a member/AMG nut with 2 other AMG cars) E55 Estates produced for the 2005 model year. In VERY RARE Platinum Blue Metallic with Black/Blue two-tone interior (has subtle blue stitching throughout), light grey headliner. 31.5k miles with 2 owners (AutoCheck is incorrect, 2 of the noted owners are Mercedes dealers).
This has to be one of my favorite Mercedes-Benzes of the last two decades, partly due to its rarity and the Q ship factor. This is a true multipurpose vehicle, as you can find yourself hauling a wardrobe while simultaneously clipping an apex at 75 mph. And if you are a parent and just can’t let go of your youth, this is the best way to have your cake and eat it while on your way to soccer practice.
-Paul
Another 87 Mercedes 190 2.3-16 For Sale with Only 44k Miles!
It must be deja vu I think as I don’t believe this is the same car that was listed before on this blog. But here’s another very low miles 2.3-16 for sale on the left coast in Berkley, California for $11,500 (Craigslist):
quote from seller’s listing:
This incredible 190E 2.3-16v is in impeccable original low-mile condition, and has had dealer service since new. For the last five years it’s been in the hands of a Northern California Mercedes Benz dealer family. This is not only a high performance car in great condition – it’s also an important bit of history. After developing its four-valve cylinder head with motorsport specialists Cosworth, as well modifying its suspension, transmission, aerodynamics, exhaust and interior, Mercedes unveiled the 2.3-16 at the Nurburgring in 1984 in a race that included several former and future Formula One champions, including Niki Lauda, Alan Prost and Ayrton Senna (who won), as well as Stirling Moss, who had famously driven for Mercedes in its heyday.
Most 16v’s available today are high mileage and/or modified cars. This one shows and drives as nearly new, to which we can attest as this is our third (our first having 17,000 miles on the odometer when it came through the dealership in 1989). 2.3-16’s were only available in the U.S. in only 1986 and 1987, and this `87 may be seen as an appealing “interim” model. It has the flushed-in headlights of the ‘87 models, but retains the simpler and more reliable sunroof and sunroof control of the `86 cars. Recent work includes a major service with upgraded-spec MB factory injectors; serviced rear SLS suspension and replaced front suspension ball joints; refurbished a/c; and four new Michelin Pilot tires. A December 2009 smog report shows unbelievably low emissions, attesting to the car’s impeccable mechanical condition. The bodywork is straight and clean with no signs of accidents or repairs. The original paint is very good for a 20-plus year old car, with good shine and few stone chips.
I love these cars! And not to sound like a broken record, but an e30 M3 of the same vintage would have a starting bid of twice the price. I realize you can make an argument that the M3 has a more sporting intent, and the winning pedigree, but not at twice the price. Someone go snag this fantastic deal!
dc
1979 Mercedes-Benz 500SLC
The car we see below represents one of the rarest post-war Mercedes-Benzes to be produced. They were manufactured to homologate the 450SLC for rally purposes. Fewer than 100 cars were imported into the United States as gray market cars during production. A few more were brought into the US during the 1980s as a one time “personal” exemption.
The 450 SLC 5.0 was introduced in 1978 and it differed from the stock 450SLC in that its hood and trunk lids were crafted from aluminum. Also included were front and rear spoilers which resulted in better aerodynamics and a higher top speed of 142 mph. This model was also the first application of the aluminum/silicon alloy V8 engines. Lighter in weight than the standard 4.5 V8, it produced 240 (DIN) horsepower (over 300 HP in today’s SAE HP terms). In 1980, the 500SLC replaced the 450SLC 5.0. A four speed automatic replaced the previous three speed box and a smaller diameter steering wheel came standard. With only 1,154 units produced, this was the rarest of all SLC models.
1979 Mercedes-Benz 500SLC on Hemmings
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The seller explains:
With maybe 4 roadworthy examples left in the US, this special run rust free/dent free coupe is ready to go for historic racing, rallies or car shows. Aluminum hood and trunk deck, limited slip differential, working A/C, sunroof, fresh interior and recent paint this car is ready to enjoy or re-market to Mercedes collector and “double your money!”
While this is hardly a concours quality car, $11,500 seems very reasonable considering the rarity and pedigree of this particular model. Much like it’s ancestor, the 300SL Gullwing, this is a Mercedes-Benz that brought racing technology to the street.
(Source: Faszination SL R/C 107, Copyright 2001 DaimlerChrysler Konzernarchiv)
-Paul
Happy Holidays 2009
Evan’s 250C in fresh snow.
All the best for 2010.
~Evan and Dan
The 280SE 3.5 and its siblings, value added.
Rarity and classic lines can make prices of some vehicles sky-rocket. When most people think of ultra expensive vintage Mercedes the 300SL gullwing springs instantly to mind or they may think of really old models like the 540K. The previously sleeping beauty of vintage Mercedes in my mind is the 1971 280SE 3.5. Several years ago these cars could be had for far less than their almost unbelievable $100,000 to $200,000 sale prices the cabriolets now bring.
With the 28SE, opposite the gullwing, the cabrio is far more valuable than the hard top coupe. So right now non-convertible 280SE 3.5s can be had at a small fraction of the cost. You still can have all the classic lines and purchase a car that, in my mind, is a fantastic investment. Just don’t by a hard top with the intention of turning it into a convertible, that sort of shenanigans frowned upon. Beware of nice looking outsides with scary rusty under body.
The 108 coupe body style could be had as a 250SE, 2.5 liter inline 6, 280SE, 2.8 liter inline 6, or 280SE 3.5, 3.5 liter V8. Just over 1000 of the 3.5 cabrios were made and all 280 3.5 models combined totaled less than 5000 during their run.
The similar 112 chassis 300SE is also a place to look if this design appeals to you, but the price of the 3.5 does not.
Here are a couple of nice no reserve examples on eBay of several of these models.
Euro spec 1972 280SE Coupe hardtop
Unique black over red color combo. Mercedes occasionally made black roofed cars (My 1970 250C was black over silver), which added to an illusion of being a convertible, particularly when the windows are all down in the pillarless coupe. This one appears well maintained. The no reserve and low starting price will guarantee a sale and provide a view of market value. Less than 100,000 miles can be considered low, my 250C ran strong and quiet with 200k. The 2.8 from this era was quite indestructible, (the same can’t be said for the later twin cam 2.8 model) and provides a wonderful thrumming yacht/cabin cruiser like sound. Tell me this isn’t a pretty car:
1966 250SE Coupe hardtop with 4 speed manual
German diplomat owned vehicle here so you can be sure it was optioned out. Again another example of the two tone paint job here with cream on top. An amazing 24,000 mile original being sold at no reserve, with a low starting price. Not as powerful as the 280, but the look remains. Interior shows class with wood, cracking can be a major problem, that still looks great and has a working Becker radio. The four speed adds to this car’s already great value.
And for the high end a pair of stunning 1971 280SE 3.5 cabriolet models for sale to you at a bargain $139,000 for the first and a mere $175,000 for the second.
Both are restored column shifted automatics, you could get it with a floor shifter which is more fun. Very neat compact V-8.
The 63,000 mile car:
The 35,000 mile car:
The movie the Hangover brought these beautiful cars back into the attention of the masses as the ultimate Vegas boulevard cruiser, though the producers insanely thought it was necessary to destroy at least one for the films “intricate” plot to be properly told. Photos courtesy of locutus on fuzzyshot.com:
While it is always nice to buy the best example you can afford, Mercedes paint on cars like this during this era can be exceptionally well done from the factory. Finding one that has lost its luster and at first looks sad and faded may be a perfect opportunity for a deal. Spending a good amount of time with a series of correct polishing compounds and elbow grease can yield stunning results on faded Mercedes paints. Check out these photos courtesy of M-100.cc:
~Evan
Low Miles W124 Merc E500 For Sale in Washington
Here’s a gorgeous , with only 8800 miles and a $43k buy-it-now:
quote from seller’s eBay listing:
1994 Mercedes E500 finished in Pearl Black over Parchment Leather interior. This ONE OWNER example is being presented in excellent, garage kept condition. Fully loaded with all options from the factory, this E500 is considered the original AMG Mercedes as it was a joint collaboration between Mercedes and Porsche, it carries with it very subtle OEM body treatments such as front and rear fender flares and enhanced grill. Purchased new in 12/94 from California dealer, this car has only seen 8800 miles and always stored in a climate controlled garage. All service documents from factory Authorized Mercedes dealer, all books, tools, and keys! No accidents or paintwork and is 100% all original as it came from the factory. Considered the lowest mileage E500 in the country known to exist. A collectible car with the comfort and ease of a daily driver!
While there aren’t many E500’s with this kind of mileage — after all, most were driven by wealthy executives who didn’t care about miles — $43k sounds very optimistic. Maybe there are gold bars in the glove box, but I think in this economy, the seller is really holding out for the one in a million (or billion?) that might justify the price for the miles.
dc
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