Faults:

Bought this car for only $850. As soon as I purchased it, I replaced the fuel filters, air filter, and braided fuel hose. It ran much smoother after this.

Replaced the vacuum pump system for the locks.

Much work to get all power windows working.

Replaced headlights, so they would shine brightly again.

New tires.

Violent shaking at 50 mph caused me to spend over $800 replacing front end parts. The cause happened to be that the tires needed balanced. At least the parts I replaced needed it, so it was worth it for me.

Odometer fixed at 235,867. It was hung up when I purchased it. Not sure how many miles are on it. I have service records from 1984 to 1993... the last recording shows the car had 205,000 miles. It could have just a few thousand over what it reads now - 244,750, or could be way on up in the 350,000 to 400,000 range.

Replaced the battery and alternator.

General Comments:

I bought this car off of Craigslist as a project car, because I had always like the older Mercedes, and just decided to get it. I have had to replace some things, but hey, that is part of the project.

The only time the car has failed to start in a year and a half was when the alternator and battery went bad. It is rock solid, looks great, and is comfortable and reliable. I have taken it on two 500 mile round trips, and it did great while getting an impressive 30 MPG on the highway.

I plan on painting it eventually, because the clearcoat is going.

Some of my friends think I am crazy, but every time I get inside, hear the diesel purr to life, let the sunroof back, and see that shiny hood ornament, I am reminded that I am driving a REAL car. I am convinced it will be on the road long after many brand new products out today.

Faults:

When I first bought it, I had to have the bushes replaced for a Road Worthy Cert.

The back seats had completely collapsed, but I never bothered to get them fixed - they were still comfy compared to a contemporary sedan.

Power steering belt snapped.

General Comments:

I got this car as a 19 year old when I began studying, and needed something to cover the 1 and a half hour commute. As a high speed lounge room, she was fine, the ride was just sensational and she soaked up the bumps in what was a very old highway quite well.

I love the W126, but unfortunately the 2.8 straight six is too underpowered in a large car. Get one of the bigger engines, and you would be fine.

A great car, even for a young person - just spend the extra money and get a good one, it will save you lots in the long run!

Faults:

I recently acquired this car as my father passed.

This was his fun car. Being a Realtor in California, I have not worked in the past 2 years. Now I am getting back into the market and I need a car.

I feel so comfortable in this car. My father kept it in GREAT CONDITION. There is a small cigarette burn in the passenger seat (probably from his pipe) and a small worn tear in the driver's seat both very small. The leather interior is perfect, he used a costumed made cover for the dash. I love the tinted windows... it's a dark navy blue with all the trimmings... complete with original hubcaps.

Since there is no car payment, and my mom insisted on keeping the insurance and car tags with their other cars, it's absolutely no cost to me.

Only I am wondering if my clients would feel slighted being in an older car.. but I think it's better than an new economy car.

Loving THE RIDE

P.