450SE - What is 'high mileage'?

[graham]

The age of these cars now, if they've not had bushes and suchlike replaced, there's a good chance they'll need them. Almost irrespective of mileage... Although I know of a 1954 220S which is original and still running beautifully. It's not quite on it's original tyres (thank heavens! There is a limit to originality!) but the bushes are the ones fitted in the factory and are in excellent condition.

I've also found a nice 450SLC (with a sunroof  )... I know - it's not a 116! But it is the same era.

[Beastie]

I've also found a nice 450SLC (with a sunroof  )... I know - it's not a 116! But it is the same era.

Ooooooooh, nice. You don't see too many of those. I don't think they sold in very high numbers at all. A nice one would certainly be tempting.

[TJ 450]

Yes, I tend to follow the "replace all while you're there" approach for suspension bushes, but can separate upper and lower control arms in the front end.

As s class explained, the M116/7 (all variants) is known for the chain slapping against brittle plastic guides, breaking them and subsequently bending the valves on the LH head. The other engines are much more durable in this regard, but of course the chains need to be replaced when they're worn out anyway.

IMO, the chain, guides, tensioner and possibly cam sprockets should be changed before 200k km or when the guides are going brown. If the chain shows significant stretch it's already too far gone.

Camshaft oiler pipe plastic fittings need to be checked without fail, otherwise oil starvation may result. These parts are only worth a few dollars, yet are so critical to the engine's operation.

Tim

[TJ 450]

I've also found a nice 450SLC (with a sunroof  )... I know - it's not a 116! But it is the same era.

Ooooooooh, nice. You don't see too many of those. I don't think they sold in very high numbers at all. A nice one would certainly be tempting.

It's hard to find a good SLC these days, but they are a very nice car IMO. A very expensive car in their day too.

Tim

[Casey]

62,000+ SLC's produced, 1981 being the last year as the SEC became available. Not nearly as rare as 6.9's.

Wouldn't want that little room in a car myself, but I'll bet they're fun to drive!

[graham]

An SLC is surprisingly spacious. If you've tried a W124 coupe, you'll have an idea.

The one I have found is a '79, registration number 'SLC 79'.

[graham]

Finally got to see the 450 today... Not all it could be, and certainly not worth the asking price. The seller was adamant that it is a rare car, in "excellent condition for it's age" and that I'll not find a better one. I hate disappointing people so I said I'd think about it... I'd thought about it before I got back to my wife waiting by our car.

No.