The SL320 / 300SL will have the M104 engine... nice motor, it has the usual issues with head gaskets like most of the M104's, don't think there's anything else major to worry about. The SL500 / 500SL will have the M119 engine, which is a real powerhouse... no major problems there, but usually due for a timing chain & rails by 150k (and it's not as easy or cheap to do as our old diesels). The M119 is a fairly expensive engine to maintain, though... not that the M104 is cheap, but the M119 is a notch above. The 500SL had mechanical (KE?) injection from 90-92 and then bumped up to the electronic LH injection starting in 1993, IIRC.
If your wife doesn't care about power (and you don't either), I'd stick with the SL320. If one of you wants a *fast* car, get the SL500. Drive both and let us know how you like them! I'd love a late R129 SL500 'Silver Arrow' edition with the AMG Sport package. Mmmm..... :-) -Dave M. > ------------------------------ > Date: Thu, 23 Mar 2006 06:05:28 -0500 > From: "Bob DuPuy" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > Subject: Re: [MBZ] An SL for wifey? > > > I like the 300SL from around 93. Are there any known problems with > this car, or that engine? There is not a huge price difference now > between the 300 and the 500 is the 500 engine more troublesome? > > Thanks, > > Bob DuPuy
