From a new guy who knows little:

In Texas, a 1996 500 SL, 130K miles, body looks decent, haven't driven it.

2 questions, looking for help:
1. What might this car be worth, if it checks out in good shape mechanically with no corrosion?
2. Any trouble areas in the '96 year model I should look for? Is 130K miles a problem for a 14 year old 500 SL?

Many thanks in advance,
Rusty

 

I own a 96SL500 (they changed the letter order in 1996 and later). I know that the 1995 has a 4 speed auto while the 1996 has a 5 speed. Makes the 96 quicker. Also the 96 has 4 valves per cylinder instead of 3. I have 72000 miles on mine and it hasn't given me any trouble in 2 1/2 years. I get about 18 mpg in daily driving, more on the highway. have gotten as high as 26mpg. I would find a shop that specializes in Mercedes repair and ask by phone what they charge for a complete diagnostic for a car you are considering purchasing (I paid $79). Great piece of mind and they can tell you if something is needed and what it might cost. Car does hold 8 1/2 quarts of oil and filters are a little more.Dealers are expensive and you can go to www.performanceparts4benz.com to look at the cost of some parts. I purchased my car from a dealer and everything worked when I took delivery (they had replaced central locking vacuum pump and some bulbs in the dash. They have the right tools. I replaced bulbs in the highlight. Be sure the soft top works and is in good condition. That could easily cost you $2500. www.kbb.com can help you price it.

 

I forgot to mention. It is the most fun car I ever drove!!!

 

Many thanks for your helpful information. I am hanging on to the information.

Rusty