1983 380 SEL (I am a Newbie looking for answers)
 

Hello There Everyone,

I am a brand new member to this forum, and actually a brand new Mercedes Owner, or should I say, soon to be owner. I am about to buy a 1983 380 SEL. The car is absolutely beautiful. It is a car that a neighbor of mine has owned for years and years. He just beat me to a great deal on a convertible SL of 70's vintage, so he no longer has the nead for the bigger SEL.

What I am wondering is, Is there anything in particular that I should look out for before purchasing this car? I know all about looking for rust and the obvious body things to look for. But are there any Mercedes quirks that I should be aware of. The car has a lot of miles, 220K, but being in immaculate condition and running fairly well, I don't think I can go wrong with a price tag of $2500.

I have been into cars for years, but mostly sports cars. I am in the process of doing a complete ground up restoration on a 67 MGB. I also have a couple of Porsches that I love. But, this will be my first Mercedes. I look forward to hanging out here and learning from the experts.

Thanks in advance.

Brian from HB, CA