Here is a picture of a mercedes which i would like to purchase as a first car. http://autos.yahoo.com/used-cars/mercedes_benz-380sel-cars325483304;_ylt=ArGHCbhuTstOBznwMsgLr85MVI54;_ylv=3?sortcol=price&sortdir=up&askpriceub=any&askpricelb=any&deliverymileageub=any&deliverymileagelb=any&location=Mchenry%2C+IL+60051&listingtype=used&model=&make=mercedes_benz&distance=50
But it needs a new alternator, fuel pump and radio. How much do you think the alternator and fuel pump are, and how hard do you think they would be to replace and insert?
also, can you please tell me if its a good car for a teenager, sure its a mercedes, and the insurance is pretty high, but my parents said that they would take care of paying half of the insurance. And its a big car, great for carrying people around, thanks for the help
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February 20th, 2011 at 1:57 pm
it is an early 90’s more than likely.
Mercedes are extremely expensive near the end of their life. Dont let the price tag fool you.
The stuff mentioned prob not that much. But i would steer clear if you need a dependable car for work or school. If it is a fixer then go for it.
And they dont get that good gas mileage either.
February 20th, 2011 at 2:16 pm
I guess calling the dealership’s toll-free number and asking them is just way too logical eh?
February 20th, 2011 at 3:01 pm
The headlights where really throwing me off. I couldn’t determine if it was an 85-93 model but its neither of them. Ive come to realize its about a 1983 300 SEL due to the front headlights. These Headlight where discontinued after the new redesigned 300SEL came out. Honestly this car is for old people, i cant imagine a teenager even wanting a car as old as this one. You should invest your money into a used Honda or Toyota, something newer then an 1983 vehicle.
This is a car just like the one you have displayed as an example. It is a 1983 model. Hope i could help.
http://www.team-bhp.com/forum/attachments/super-cars-imports-india/55787d1223061116-mercedes-w126-300sd-1983-1985mercedes300sd.jpg
February 20th, 2011 at 3:08 pm
early 80’s, likely an ‘82. The pricing is about right if the body is tight and no major bondo. The Alternator is going to be in the $130 range, but I’ve had luck with getting them rebuilt. The fuel pump is about $200 and you will want a new one. You’ll replace it again in the next 5 years. Installing a radio is no problem in this vehicle and most of the wiring will be present including antenna controls.
The 3.8 has always been one of the most demanding of the Benz engines. It will be a great education. I think you will be pleasantly surprised when you insure the vehicle as it will be quite reasonable.
You may also be impressed with the performance but the fuel requirements are going to be a shock.
February 20th, 2011 at 3:21 pm
The 380SE and 380SEL were only available from 1981 to 1985. But, since the seller lists the VIN: WDBCA33A1DB041844, you can tell it’s an ‘84 model. The 10th character is a VIN number (on any car from 1980 or newer) is always the model year. “D” stand for ‘84.
The ‘84 and newer 380’s are a better bet compared to the ‘81 through ‘83 because Benz only used a single timing chain on the early V8’s but they stretched too easily and could snap while driving (leading to one very expensive repair bill). Starting in ‘84, Benz installed a double timing chain right at the factory which are much more reliable.
February 20th, 2011 at 3:51 pm
Click the CarFax link from the page you posted. The VIN identifies it as:
VIN WDBCA33A1DB041844
Year/Make/Model: 1983 MERCEDES-BENZ 380SEL
Body Style: SEDAN 4 DR
Engine Type: 3.8L V8 FI
The alternator runs about $100 for an OEM replacement Bosch unit. Installation isn’t too tough but if you have to pay for installation, figure another $100 or so at least and $200 at a Benz dealer.
The power steering pump (nor fuel pump according to the ad) about $130. Installation is fiddly, probably $150 or so or close to double that at a Benz dealer.
The radio will be expensive if you want a refurbished OEM Mercedes-branded Blaupunkt. If you’re willing to go after-market, whatever you wish to spend. The housing should be DIN standard, so any DIN radio should be a fairly simple installation. If you go after market you’ll need a wiring harness adapter. Unless you can find a plug-in harness, leave that to an auto sound shop.
Those older Benzes were pretty tough mechanically. The engines and transmissions are good for upwards of 500,000 miles if maintained properly. Accessory systems start to become an issue around the mileage that this one has, as evidenced by the bad alternator and power steering pump. A fuel pump will run you $250 to $300 and the fuel pump relay about $130. Brake pads are cheap enough, but rotors, calipers, and labor — well, best you don’t ask.
The BIG issue on old Benzes is rust! Mercedes didn’t get it right on corrosion until the late 1980s and early 1990s. A careful inspection of the body and frame for corrosion is essential, preferably by a factory-trained Mercedes body tech. Repairs can be staggeringly expensive.
Safety wise, there’s nothing better. As long as the body and frame are not rusted out!
February 20th, 2011 at 3:51 pm
it is an early 80s and i dont think it is a good car for a teenager because it already needs all of that stuff what does it need next? and if it happens to stop it is going to cost you alot?