Greetings,

I am faced with deciding between purchasing one of three inexpensive mercedes. As I know nothing about Mercedes vehicles, I was hoping you could help me decide. Here they are:

http://losangeles.craigslist.org/car/106197185.html
http://losangeles.craigslist.org/car/106550331.html
http://losangeles.craigslist.org/car/106877756.html

They are:
A 1978 300D Diesel ($1500)
A 1974 450SEL ($1200)
A 1979 280SEL ($1200 but they're fixing the Cat and smogging so $1600)

They all seem like good vehicles and as I'm not spending alot of money I'm not terribly concerned about getting a lemon.

So sight unseen if one had to make a snap judgement, which one would you pick, and why?

Also if you guys could give me a little background about the three cars and their years that would be awesome!

Thanks guys,

--Jay
A future Mercedes owner...

 

not too familiar with older models, but i would buy '79 280SEL...

 

My preference would be the diesel. Depends on various factors however. How much mileage? Diesels go a long time. Make sure the compression is ok. In any case, if possible have it checked by a reliable, honest MB mechanic who knows what they are doing. Well worth the expense to avoid future expense. MBs are very reliable if maintenance is done regularly, but they are expensive. A piece of iron lasts longer than tin foil.

Perry White, Atlanta
'90 560SEL
'78 450SL -- (for sale)

 

Personal I a fan of the 280 SEL good solid cars and from the pix it looks as it was in good shape?