Getting over giving up my IM speedster to Dr clock by immersing myself in a bigger luxury set of wheels. But still from Germany! Entirely different driving experience. 1987 MB 560sl. Has radio, clock, reclining seats, windows, removable hardtop and a/c (if I can get it working). Still miss the excitement of driving the bug powered wonder.
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They certainly are fun, but I haven't looked back...
I too have been eying the MB SL and newer SLK models. They are strong tanks - the SL (Sport Light) model is surely a Germanic laugh since these things are heavy cars at 4000#. Even the removeable hard top is heavy. I'd like to find one with the apparently rare 5 speed manual transmission (there were 4 speeds too) - they seem to have been more popular in Europe than in the states.
Just last week I looked at a dark blue 2006 350 SLK with 46k miles. It had 7 speed automatic - which you could shift + or - but no paddle shifters. Like the dreaded Boxster IMS/RMS design flaw, the MB automatic trans of around 2006 had a conductor plate design flaw. Its a plastic plate (deep in trans) that has contacts for overly complicated transmission computer. Part is cheap like IMS bearing but installation is not - after install everything has to be reset and reprogrammed. Failure can happen even at very low mileage same as IMS. Many say since other interior trans parts are affected, its cheaper to replace trans with a used one at $4-5k. When it fails you are either stuck in a gear or it randomly shifts up and down.
Passed on it - not a fan of dark blue in FL sun. Fold hardtop is nice but fills the trunk. Looked at the 2015 250SLK - they do have a 6 speed manual available but good luck locating one plus the 1.8L turbo (201 hp) 4 cyl doesn't seem to be designed to work with a manual trans. The turbo power doesn't come on as you shift but after the shift is well completed. They only make about 4k manuals a year! I looked into European delivery of a 2016 - now renamed 300 SLK with a new 2L 4 cyl turbo (241 hp) --- thinking it might better be suited to the manual. Low and behold - a manual trans is no longer offered! MB has a nice European delivery program even with a good discount on the car (unlike Porsche which has NO Discount - often charging more as car comes out of US dealers allocation). NOT me in picture - sales guy.
I kept an eye out for a 300sl with a manual 5 speed, but must be rare. I drove a 500sl but wasn't impressed. The 380 sl must be anemic. I liked the look of the 560 sl but can't say I care for the wallowing ride and quiet v-8. A local fellow here, Alan, lost his speedster to a fire and is very happy with his nsx. Quitter, yes, or maybe just a temporary respite from the madness.
Rich,
That RED looks good on you. Hope you have enjoyed your summer in it; will also extend your cruising season with a/c and heat.
Rich - I know its still red BUT you have to be missing the wind in your hair and bugs in your teeth?
Know he loved his best friend!
