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Garage => Test Drive => Topic started by: Francis on 11 March 2008, 12:58 AM

Poll
Question: Do you think the W116 is better kept original or modified.
Option 1: modify votes: 8
Option 2: keep original votes: 21
Option 3: drop on guts votes: 1
Option 4: leave the old girl alone votes: 4
Title: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: Francis on 11 March 2008, 12:58 AM
Let me know what u think.
Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: 116Benz on 11 March 2008, 01:04 AM
I plan to modify the SE, wont be anything outlandish, but things like swap the rear seat backrest with headrests, extra timber on the console, bundt's, tint, sheepskins and CD.
Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: OzBenzHead on 11 March 2008, 01:45 AM
I can't find a way of casting my vote in the poll - how to?  or where?  I've voted in them before, so am I having a senior moment or is there something amiss with the poll mechanism?

Anyway, my three cents' worth:

I'm happy to modify mine from its factory spec, but only so far as I can without resorting to non-M-B parts and materials. So, for example, my Crayford wagon, which originally had a D-Jet M110 but arrived without an engine, is getting a K-Jet M110, partly because that's what I have available and partly because I'm familiar with the utter reliability of the CIS (and hear too many bad stories about the D-Jet once it starts playing up). Of course, the Crayford is already seriously customised, but that's a different story, and not one I'm responsible for.

Also, I'd happily do a Steve and instal a different rear-seat backrest to incorporate headrests.

But I would not fit anything that couldn't have been fitted during the production run - in other words I wouldn't bastardise my Benzes.  They are Mercedes-Benzes or they are not; a mishmash of M-B, Fraud, Hold-on, or aftermarket stuff does not, to me, a Mercedes-Benz make - so much so that the $3000 audio system my son fitted to my W108 (as a "thank you" gift when I lent him that car for a month) came out in favour of a Becker of correct vintage.

What others do to / with their Benzes is entirely their business, but bastardisation is not for me.
Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: AMG69 on 11 March 2008, 02:12 AM
totally agree - period correct MB is fine by me (and AMG ofcourse  ;D)....oh, but I would go so far as one of those new retro Becker Mexico's if I had a lazy $2000 lying around!
Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: pompy on 11 March 2008, 03:19 AM
I agree - originality gets me going.
I'm even reluctant to have a complete respray done.
I have considered replacing the period Mexico with one from a 126 - but even that would bug me.
The telescopic antenna has seized up and a new correct one ex-agent would cost somewhere in the region of ZAR 2 grand. I'll eventually get one - but no pirate for me as they are in any case too long and look out of place.
Just my 2 grand's worth.
Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: Martin 280s on 11 March 2008, 05:35 AM
Like the others, I only accept period modifications using MB parts or at least accessories which were specifically available for the W116.
Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: oscar on 11 March 2008, 06:31 AM
 :'( I can't vote either, the poll's locked ??? EDIT I noticed polling's open, go forth, vote.

I love original.  But I keep modifying mine, albeit with period stuff.  I do like seeing good transformations though.  Even the crappy transformations can be interesting to look at.  But I can't go past an original as new w116 and not drool.
Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: alabbasi on 11 March 2008, 11:24 AM
I woudnt mind getting a Euro 450SEL (for the bumpers) and installing recaro seats up front, a modern climate control and navigation system and a 6 liter engine from a modern Pontiac GTO mated with a 6 speed gearbox and ABS and modern air suspension (not low rider style just for improved ride). That would make a nice daily driver.
Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: Wolfgang Germany on 12 March 2008, 06:15 PM
@116benz

Extra timber on the console?

Like this?
(http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r11/gamma2009/210407058.jpg)

Imho original is the best way in all cases. Long-term maintenance of value and best design.

Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: 116Benz on 12 March 2008, 08:09 PM
Kinda like that Wolfgang, on my SE, its not got zebrano around the A/C controls, the shifter and the ashtray, I've got the spare's to fix that problem, the only difficult part is that the SE hasnt got elec. windows, so thats going to be the hard part. Is that one of the new Becker Mexico's in the console and was the chrome selector surround difficult to fit?
Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: oscar on 12 March 2008, 08:55 PM
Quote from: 116Benz on 12 March 2008, 08:09 PM
the only difficult part is that the SE hasnt got elec. windows, so thats going to be the hard part.

I've only seen one or two on ebay without switches except hole for the hazard switch.  They're bloody rare but were made.  I would've bought this one from Germany except the seller wouldn't accept paypal.  Can't remember how much it went for

(http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/4250/18ef1kn8.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)

Wolfgang, I love that interior.  I do wish someone would do a full wood steering wheel though.  I'll get one of those zebrano instrument clusters one day, but how about this one below?  ;D (I think I'd rather a tacho) but this one sold for $175AUD in Germany s couple of years ago.

(http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/8266/263a58a2c6sx.jpg)
Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: Andrew280SEL on 12 March 2008, 09:27 PM
I'd like to know that too Michel, I mean that interior treatment above is just lovely IMO. I especially like the wheel. Really adds more class to the car I reckon.

As for me, original or modified, I generally like to keep a W116 original. However, I've recently kind of broken my own rule with my 350SE which I've started and plan to keep on modifying...HOWEVER, modified only with MB parts of more or less the same era.

My 280SEL will stay totally original however.
Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: 116Benz on 13 March 2008, 06:03 AM
Quote from: oscar on 12 March 2008, 08:55 PM
Quote from: 116Benz on 12 March 2008, 08:09 PM
the only difficult part is that the SE hasnt got elec. windows, so thats going to be the hard part.

I've only seen one or two on ebay without switches except hole for the hazard switch.  They're bloody rare but were made.  I would've bought this one from Germany except the seller wouldn't accept paypal.  Can't remember how much it went for

(http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/4250/18ef1kn8.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)

Wolfgang, I love that interior.  I do wish someone would do a full wood steering wheel though.  I'll get one of those zebrano instrument clusters one day, but how about this one below?  ;D (I think I'd rather a tacho) but this one sold for $175AUD in Germany s couple of years ago.

(http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/8266/263a58a2c6sx.jpg)

Doncha love the Rolex clock? I spose when the Bentley has a Breitling time piece in the dash, it's only fitting to kit out the Benz in the same style.  ;D
Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: Martin 280s on 13 March 2008, 06:05 AM
Is that wheel one from a W124 or w126 with the w116 pad? I saw one on e-bay this week!

That NEW Becker in the console is just gorgeous!!!!! Pity it's almost BrR$4,000!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: Wolfgang Germany on 13 March 2008, 06:11 AM
Yepp, that´s the new Becker Mexico with all the modern "schnickschnack".  ;)

I don´t know anything about the woodparts in this car, I know only the picture.  :-[


Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: Martin 280s on 13 March 2008, 06:17 AM
And there was I thinking that beauty was yours!
Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: 116Benz on 13 March 2008, 06:26 AM
the chrome touches are rather nice, the chrome selector cover is a nice touch too.
Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: Wolfgang Germany on 13 March 2008, 06:35 AM
Quote from: Martin 280s on 13 March 2008, 06:17 AM
And there was I thinking that beauty was yours!

No sorry, i have only cars in original condition.  8)

The cockpit from my 6.9:

(http://bilder27.parsimony.net/forum66611/DiesundDas/450SEL%206.9.jpg)


Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: Big_Richard on 13 March 2008, 06:43 AM
Quote from: Wolfgang Germany on 13 March 2008, 06:35 AM
Quote from: Martin 280s on 13 March 2008, 06:17 AM
And there was I thinking that beauty was yours!

No sorry, i have only cars in original condition.  8)

The cockpit from my 6.9:

(http://bilder27.parsimony.net/forum66611/DiesundDas/450SEL%206.9.jpg)




Does that old phone still work in Germany ? We never ever had the network those things use in Australia.
Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: Wolfgang Germany on 13 March 2008, 07:05 AM
No, unfortunately not. The B-Net in Germany worked from 1972 until 1994. In 1985 came the C-Net. The D-Net started in 1992, so the B-Net was 1994 unnecessary.

The telephone costed 20.000,-DM. This is a quarter from the price of a new 6.9.

(http://bilder27.parsimony.net/forum66611/DiesundDas/Autotelefon.jpg)

Anyway now it´s heaviness (23Kg) on the back axle.  ;D

Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: Big_Richard on 13 March 2008, 07:54 AM
Quote from: Wolfgang Germany on 13 March 2008, 07:05 AM
No, unfortunately not. The B-Net in Germany worked from 1972 until 1994. In 1985 came the C-Net. The D-Net started in 1992, so the B-Net was 1994 unnecessary.

The telephone costed 20.000,-DM. This is a quarter from the price of a new 6.9.

(http://bilder27.parsimony.net/forum66611/DiesundDas/Autotelefon.jpg)

Anyway now it´s heaviness (23Kg) on the back axle.  ;D



Thats an impressive peice of equipment. Well done for keeping it installed ;)
Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: 500eguy on 14 March 2008, 03:59 AM
i say they are great both ways but i think i would have to choose modify, not anything stupid... say period correct mods.
Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: AMG69 on 14 March 2008, 04:48 AM
I'm pretty sure that steering wheel is available in Australia via Carshine.com.au
Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: Andrew280SEL on 14 March 2008, 06:20 PM
Quote from: AMG69 on 14 March 2008, 04:48 AM
I'm pretty sure that steering wheel is available in Australia via Carshine.com.au

It is... :o

I just checked, sure it's for the W107 but it should be interchangeble I guess.

"Walnut or Zebrano with Leather - $895.00 exchange" the page says.

(http://www.carshine.com.au/Pictures/Mercedes/Mercedes%20-%20SL-Klasse%20W107%20Accessories%20-%20Steering%20Wheel%20Wood%20&%20Leather%201%20(W107-3948843).jpg)

Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: Andrew280SEL on 14 March 2008, 07:02 PM
Forgive my ignorance, but is there a great difference?

I seriously don't know  ;)
Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: Big_Richard on 14 March 2008, 07:57 PM
Quote from: Andrew280SEL on 14 March 2008, 06:20 PM

It is... :o

I just checked, sure it's for the W107 but it should be interchangeble I guess.

"Walnut or Zebrano with Leather - $895.00 exchange" the page says.


That's not bad, Does it have a new horn pad and star logo? or is one to buy that separately?
Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: Andrew280SEL on 14 March 2008, 11:38 PM
Quote from: Patrick Bateman on 14 March 2008, 07:57 PM
That's not bad, Does it have a new horn pad and star logo? or is one to buy that separately?

That's a good question PB, the site doesn't actually say so I assume it comes with the pad and logo.

The complete listing says:
"STEERING WHEELS Walnut or Zebrano with Leather - $895.00 exchange
(we can also match to your existing wood colour!)

We can also supply original steering wheels from $200.00 exchange!
"

Interesting you should ask that too, looking at the image above I noticed the horn pad is an original type and the outside is leather. Here's another image on the site, showing the two wood types:
(http://www.carshine.com.au/Pictures/Mercedes/Mercedes%20-%20SL-Klasse%20W107%20Accessories%20-%20Steering%20Wheel%20Wood%20&%20Leather%202%20(W107-447373).jpg)

So yeah, since it doesn't mention the pad not being included I guess it is included. Though I suppose any prospective buyer could shoot a short email to them asking if it is if they were concerned. :)
Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: nathan on 15 March 2008, 07:27 AM
does c-net refer to cybernet?? i thuoght this went on line in 1997 when skynet became self aware?!
nathan
ps if you are confused by this, you are under 20 or over 45!! ;)
Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: WGB on 15 March 2008, 09:00 PM
I am definitely one of those and I'm not confused Nathan ;D

Bill
Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: nickc on 19 September 2008, 12:53 AM
I would say, as a whole, largely original. As I'm yet to be an owner (only a few more months in this damn country), I can only dream, but I'd probably consider a few options.

- Exhaust. Nothing loud, but surely, as with most V8s, there's something to be had there that can maybe get a bit loud when it's on full song, but stays quiet when driving sedately.
- Suspension - put new springs and shocks (Koni or similar), to drop it just a little bit (not lowrider style or anything, just half or an inch to sit it a bit lower, put it in better contact with the road, and increase the feedback a little bit).
- Steering wheel. Something like the ones in the images below. For me, the wheel is a huge part of how a car feels to drive, and the wheel in the W116 isn't all that special.
(http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e43/synopsys/MomoSteeringWheelPic1.jpg)
(http://cn1.kaboodle.com/hi/img/a/0/0/9/5/AAAACmPwCoEAAAAAAAlZoQ.jpg)

Hard to find a good one, but I think the first one would look good.

Other than that, I think Bundts probably look the best, would be nice in a 16" perhaps, instead of 14"

This is one modified W116 I really like the look of. Looks purposeful.
(http://gallery.w116.org/dl/7402-2/urlaub2005+002.jpg)


Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: John Hubertz on 20 September 2008, 02:07 PM
I love those wheels-anyone know the type/dimension?

Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: Canuck on 05 October 2008, 04:06 PM
What about cars like that turbo-charged 6.9 that's on YouTube?  I can't think of a better 6.9 modification than putting a bigger iron fist inside the velvet glove.
Title: Re: w116 better as original or modified
Post by: nickc on 05 October 2008, 10:07 PM
Those wheels are nice - not sure about the make though, just a random picture.

I think it's hard to do anything to a classic shape, like the W116, because it just ends up looking like another, beat up old Benz that someone has tried to "pimp", of which there are so many around. I don't like the over-done wood at all. Unless the wood is of supreme quality, which, unless those images aren't good representations, they appear not to be, it just looks like too much. This one below, looks good, even though it's not in great condition.
(http://gallery.w116.org/dl/6740-3/31.jpeg)
(http://gallery.w116.org/dl/6744-2/33.jpeg)


Anything engine-wise is absolutely fine though. If someone is mad enough to turbocharge, or supercharge a 6.9, full credit to them!