Hi Don,
IMHO, I think the only way to buy something like a W140 is to go in thinking
it's a "throw-away" kind of car - as long as it's supported by the purchase
price - you gotta get a "deal".
to explain a little more of what I mean -- if you go into it knowing a
service (most likely done at the dealer) might cost $5000 - $10000 for an
extreme situation (perhaps) - in which case you'll be forced to make a
decision of whether to keep the car & spend the money - and wonder what
might break next - or sell it for what might be a 'song' - or part it out on
eBay. Bear in mind, even something seemingly as basic as the shocks have
computerized functions. I don't recall what the total number of computers
in a typical W140 is, but IIRC it's in the dozens.
Also - you'll likely be unable to do *any* maintanence yourself - without
the computer equipment to diagnose and analyse what might be a simple
problem on a lesser car. And the cost of that equipment is extremely
expensive - putting it out of reach for many & requiring even a
knowledgable indy to use a certain amount of guesswork when diagnosing a
problem.
It's sad to think of these amazing cars slowly (or not so slowly)
disappearing behind the fences of local recycling centers - especially when
purchased by someone with "shallow pockets" who has not taken the time to
learn about the pitfalls.
The other side of the coin is the possibility of finding a real gem -
buying it for a great price and putting 60K miles or more on it without
spending any major money on it. I'm sure this is happening out there in
the real world - but finding that gem will take some luck, talent and
persistance. After all, they were engineered like few (maybe *no*) other
vehicles.
Good luck in your seach - BTW, if you find more than one let me know ! <LOL>
Larry T (67 MGB, 74 911, 78 240D, 91 300D)
www.youroil.net for Oil Analysis and Weber Parts
Test Results http://members.rennlist.com/oil
Weber Carb Info http://members.rennlist.com/webercarbs
----- Original Message -----
From: "Donald Snook" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: <Mercedes@okiebenz.com>
Sent: Wednesday, June 14, 2006 10:34 AM
Subject: [MBZ] Tell why not to buy a 140.
I keep running across 140 chassis cars in fantastic shape for not that
much money. Why don't I want one of these again? Is it the wiring
harness. They do appear to be very nice cars.
Donald H. Snook
1990 300SEL 127K
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