Mercedes-Benz Problems

IT'S crucial to be careful about imports, because you can't be sure about their history, but you shouldn't completely dismiss them. Some that are in good condition, and imported by reputable dealers, can be worth a second look. Get them thoroughly checked by someone you trust, who has an intimate knowledge of the make and model you want to buy. The 300E/300CE Benz is a good choice. They're very reliable, though they are known for valve guide wear as the kilometres climb. You're buying an old car, and it doesn't matter which badge is on the bonnet, it will break down at some time so be prepared.

THE 450 SLC is a lot of car for the money. You should be able to buy one for less than $18,000, which makes it great value. Look for an Australian-delivered car and avoid imports that could have come from Hong Kong, where rust is prevalent. Rust can be a problem. Check the floors inside for dampness, or signs that they have been damp. If you find any dampness walk away, because there will be serious rust in the body. The interior trim can split, seats collapse and the dash can crack. Mechanically the V8 is strong, but will use plenty of petrol. Once you've found a car you're keen on, have it checked by an expert.

THE Valiants need PULP with an upper-cylinder lubricant such as Valvemaster or Flashlube, which can be found at your local servo. Your Benz should run satisfactorily on PULP with no need for an additive.

THE 500 SEC wasn't sold here before 1993 so any car you may see for sale will be a private import and should be checked carefully. The 560 SEC was sold here from 1986 and is a much better proposition because it is easier to check the background of one for sale. There are no inherent problems with the 560 SEC, except that it is a gas guzzler, and consumes brakes at a rapid rate, all because of its bulk.

Thanks for your comments, Neil. I wonder if you would have had the same results using unleaded without the Fuelstar.

Early Mercedes SLs are already classics, so there's no problem there. The early ones -- 300SL, 190SL and 230SL pagoda roof models -- are now bringing quite high prices on the collector-car market, and while the later models aren't yet commanding the same high prices its a fair bet they will become more desirable as times goes on. If you're interested, I would look for a 350SL or even a 450SL. They are quite affordable and will give you lots of pleasurable kilometres. Most Benzes are reliable and will give untroubled service for years. Perhaps the most important thing is to buy a locally delivered car rather than a recent import. Quite a few Benzes have been brought in from Europe, Asia and the US and these can have problems with rust. I would avoid those and look for a car with a verifiable local history.

The Mercedes-Benz W123 series was released in the 1970s so there are lots of cars out there with high mileages on their odometers. Obviously the older they get and the further they have travelled, the more likely you are to strike trouble. The 230E is the pick of the bunch, but go for a late example, from 1986, which is the best equipped. It will handle unleaded fuel without a problem and will have fewer kilometres on the clock. Another car to think about is the Volvo 240/244 series. I know that might seem a boring choice, but it is solid and reliable. Mechanically they are sound and parts are available at reasonable prices. For more information check Jon Johnson at Voldat Automotive, ph: 9553 1091.