Not even sure if i am in the right area but I am new to this forum and searching for information before I purchase.
I am interested in purchasing a 72 350SL with a hardtop and euro bumbers, I have never owned a mercedes before and want my first to be a good experiance. I thought this forum might lead me in the right direction. What critical things should I know or check before purchasing?
Thanks for your consideration in this matter.

 

it's a gray market sl with the single len headlight too? better perfomance than the u.s. version. it's fairly old though, so unless it has good service records, it was garage kept and relative low mileage I would be a bit nervous. there's no such thing as a cheap sl. If love of the car enters into it then it won't matter the possible expense involved to make and keep road worthy. I'd try to find a R129, 96-98, for a much better car.

 

Thanks Brookings,
It is a 4.5 v8 badged as a 350. Well, you hit the nail on the head. This is the car I fell in love with as a preteen. It has high miles 170000 but is a driver, garage kept. I will lay hands on and look at the history records tommorrow and most likely drive it home. I know if I have made a total mistake, I can sell the hard top and euro bumpers and almost recoup my investment.

 

Brookings!
I know there is a label on the drivers door, at that point I am lost. I am very ignorate at this and do not know where to look for numbers and/or which ones should match or not. can you help me? so far this is all I have until tommorrow.
10704412002464Thanks for your consideration. Lonnie

 

it's has the gray market bumpers only, the headlights are different on the euro verision. they didn't have vins until the early 80s. your chassis number is 107 044, a euro would be 107 043. you are correct, it's labeled a 350 and should have the 4.5 litre engine weighted down with emisson controls with only 230 hp. it's a good looking car and 170,000 miles isn't bad for a 107 that old. not counting seals, gaskets and timing chain, I would expect to get at least 300,000 out of that drivetrain if it has been taken care of. I like the wheel caps, I'd like to see the the gray/silver area in the star color matched to the car. I like the looks of her, unfortunately pictures on the net are USUALLY flattering. if the car is as clean she looks in the picture, nice.