Hi Everyone, I am new here, and am considering a 1989 560sl for purchase as a weekend "getaway" car. It has been my dream car for a long time. Does anyone have any advice regarding this particular car? Are they money pits? Any specific mechanical/electrical issues that plague this car? I am considering a garage-kept one that has a little over 55,000 miles on it and looks beautiful. I am planning to have a mercedes mechanic look at if first, but if I would like to get some feedback first on what to look out for, particularly from you 560 owners! P.S. how expensive are they to maintain on a yearly basis? Thanks!!!

 

Hi- Great choice. I have a 1989 560sl with 18,000 miles black. Its my baby. When looking for a 560 I would take into considerstion the following...
All gauges work-clock, temp, speedo etc
Dashboard for any cracks or look for a dash cover (cheap way to cover them)
Does it have a service history? Mercedes service booklets are GOLDEN when they are current and stamped.
Does the SRS airbag work? They expire after ten years. Look in the glove box for a date.
Look at the soft top...any rips? Does it release and fasten fine? If the plastic windows are foggy thats fine (product works great for that)
Look for all the VIN numbers to be in place, door jams, windsheild column etc.

If you buy one of quality they are bullet proof machines. Classic, beautiful, and great value! I have had ZERO trouble with mine and its all original. Keep up on regular tune ups, good oil, car wash, and DRIVE IT it will not only look great and make you feel great, it will be of great value!

Good luck with it!