Enthusiasts Blogging Our Favorite Classifieds
It’s pretty amazing when generations of cars come together in value; right now, there are 4 generations of Mercedes-Benz S-class models that all seem to hit market for around the same amount. From the beginnings of the “Sonder” Class Mercedes with the W116 through the W220 cars that are only just over a generation old, there’s a tremendous amount of luxury available in these super sedans and coupes. So what would be your choice? We’ll go by age this time, starting with the W116:
While the R107 Mercedes-Benz is fast becoming the quintessential classic Mercedes-Benz, it’s hardtop sibling, the C107 SLC coupe has been relegated to a bit of obscurity in the annals of automotive history. It was a curious offering, a large Mercedes coupe based off the smaller SL roadster. I always wondered what would have became of the SLC if Mercedes developed it fully to the end of the R107 run, but with the introduction of the SEC coupe in 1982, it was not to be. This 1976 450SLC is a one family owned car and smack dab in the middle of the production run. With just over 54,000 miles on the clock, this is one to watch.
For today’s Wednesday Wheels I have some more affordable options and some of my favorite aftermarket wheels. I’ve been neglecting Brabus for Mercedes-Benz, but they make some great looking wheels that are just subtle enough to look slightly different than stock but more aggressive. It’s an understated look that can really dress the car up. I love the BBS Mahle wheels in the right offset on early BMWs, even if they are only 14″ wheels. Try getting good tires for those today! The Speedline MIM wheels are some of my favorites and rare to see, and I just love how those Empi wheels look on early VWs. Another rare set is the Fittipaldi/OZ 3-piece wheels, though they may be better suited to a track car. All of these are cool to see for one reason or another – what’s your favorite?
The crazy C55-engined C43 that I wrote up last September has reappeared with a new seller. Now with around 600 more miles on the clock, a new description and some new photos, it is now offered as a no reserve auction. Also note, if you’re seriously interested, that the original line that the car could not pass California smog has been removed. I like the concept of this swap and it looks clean, but I wonder why it’s being flipped after so few miles.
Here’s another roundup of some of the cooler accessories I found on EBay this week. The Nardi steering wheel is an absolute classic design and would really dress up a classic Volkswagen. I think the Mercedes-Benz reserve gas tank is too cool, even though it’s technically not a tuner accessory. It makes me want to buy the entire car just so I can slot it in! That DKW racing manifold certainly has a small number of applications, but it’s sure neat to see something for the old classics. Grabbing an original radio might not seem fun, but I love how the Blaupunkt-made Gamma units look for the Audis and you could return your car towards stock. Much as the Metric Mechanics team offers great motors for BMW, Techtonics Tuning offers this well-built 2.1 8V motor pumping out an impressive 150 horsepower with plenty of torque and instant response. Zender accessories are always popular, especially when they’re original items. And one of my favorite wheels has always been the MOMO Monte Carlo – what a stellar looking steering wheel! What’s your favorite?
