Passenger side headgasket failed.
A/C Compressor failed.
Auxiliary fan failed.
Control Arm slop.
Seats needed recovering.
Dash cracked.
The cabin is not as comfortable as you would expect from a Mercedes. It's a big small car but the seats are definitely on the small side.
The engine has a beautiful note and is a lot of fun. Plenty of torque. I love that engine.
The car has very classic lines. Truly eye-candy. Mine is black with chrome wheels. Freshly washed and polished, its a head-turner.
My car was overdue for an overhaul. Once the overhaul is complete, I think it will be relatively inexpensive to own. My mechanic says that 560SL's are relatively trouble free.
This is really a Jekyl and Hyde car. On the one hand it is very pleasant transportation. But, it has fantastic speed and handling capabilities in the right hands. I encourage any other owners to take their 560 out someplace safe and push it as hard as it will go. If you've never tried this, you will be surprised how quick your car really is and how eagerly it responds.
I have 2 560sl's and the writer did a good job of describing them. I think they are a great buy for a fun used car.
I have had the fortune of owning a 560SEL,450SL,350SLC,450SEL,450SEL 6.9 and a 300SEL,6.3 plus a few 300SD's and SDL's and this car has to be my all time favorite it has the power of the 6.9 the comfort of the 560SEL and the handling of the 6.3 this car in my Opinion is a Classic that will only appreciate in value. not even the 450SL while a great car in its own right can touch the power and torque that this car provides. and to top it all off the pleasure of driving is increased when the top is off! the only draw back is that hardtop what a bear to take off and on!! the Germans as usually over engineered it. make no mistake, its solid just a bear to remove. and place back on. in all a great roadster that even the newer 500SL's will have a hard time trying to beat!
W Dennis.
I just picked one up and love it to death. There isn't a better looking car on the road. As for the top, it is meant for two strong people, but if you have a personal garage, they sell an overhead rig that will lift it for you. They make carts that store the tops standing up. Go to performanceproducts.com. The problems with the 1986 may stem with the fact that it was the first year of the 560. They are great cars and will last forever if taken care of.
I have a 1989 560 SL. I am the second owner and I love this car. After reading all the previous comments, I can hardly wait to go home and pull my 560 SL out of the garage for a spin. I have not driven it in about three weeks. They really like to be driven, don't let them sit too long. Mine is white with the palomino interior, all original, and in perfect condition.
Great car, smoked a 2009 911 with mine, and it has over 200 thousand miles on it, a truly powerful car, super fun to drive.
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