Hi everyone. I'm brand new to this board so please bear with me if I don't know the usual posting protocols. A friend of mine wants to sell me his '93 600SL. It seems to run well, just got a new starter, but it needs a motor for the soft top. A local independent import repair place quoted $9,000 for the repair including a new motor. Another place quoted $6,000 with a used motor. Two questions, first, are those prices in the ballpark for that type of repair? Second, any thoughts on a price of $4,000 for the car given the costly repair? It's very low mileage (67k), decent overall shape (no obvious defects but some wear and fading).

 

as a starter, go to parts.com, go thru the routine.
they list the top motor, motor only at $874.00, there may
be other parts required...but this gives u a starting point.

glen

 

The 129/600 series can be quite expensive to repair and maintain...it depends alot on how good the previous owner(s) maintained these magnificent beasts.
As far as your top motor question, Glen is correct that the hydraulic pump in the trunk that drives the top motion is available for under $1,000. The labor to install one is trivial...look for yourself under the spare tire where the pump is located.

My sense is that if you're getting quotes for $000's of dollars, there must be more to the repairs than just the pump. Ask for all the quotes in writing detailing parts and labor to see what else may be in their quotes. I'd also suggest that if you really, really want this particular car, take it to the closest dealer or best indy you can find for a PPI, Pre-Purchase Inspection and do not tell them about this top motor, let them figure it out...it will be the best $100 to $150 you ever spent.

Keep in mind, that the most expensive car you will ever buy is a cheap Mercedes. Good Luck-

Bob