Please register to participate in our discussions with 2 million other members - it's free and quick! Some forums can only be seen by registered members. After you create your account, you'll be able to customize options and access all our 15,000 new posts/day with fewer ads.
I'm really amazed at how low the prices of R129 500SL's have gotten. These are beautiful cars. Both the 500SL and Corvette started new in the same price range, but today $10k will get you into a late 90's 500SL, but only an early 90's C4 (but definitely not a C5).
We all know the Corvette owns in performance. So let's get that out of the way right now. But what if you're looking for a very special, classy, V8 powered, convertible cruiser? The MB is a softer ride, easier to get in and out of, and has a better build. It still has 322 HP and a burly exhaust note. Maintenance costs are higher, but if properly maintained, they have longevity. Also, the leather has aged much better than a C4.
So is the R129 500SL a better all-around value at $10k than a used C4?
Hard to bet a nice 1992-96 LT1 powered C4 Corvette with a T-56 6-speed Manual tranny and a Targa Top IMO
Agreed, but that is a $14k+ car in good condition (and a bit more in convertible). Let's say we're talking convertibles with automatics only. For $10k you're in a 1996+ MB with 5-speed, power top, and solid build, compared to a 1989 Corvette with L98, 4-speed, manual top, and interior rattles.
Two friends have owned an import repair business for 20 years. The horror stories they tell about the enormous costs and frequency of repairs of older Benzes are awful and funny at the same time. They always have some version of what OP is asking about there, and whenever I say I'd like to have one they tell me "Go for it!" We need to put kids through college!"
Agreed, but that is a $14k+ car in good condition (and a bit more in convertible). Let's say we're talking convertibles with automatics only. For $10k you're in a 1996+ MB with 5-speed, power top, and solid build, compared to a 1989 Corvette with L98, 4-speed, manual top, and interior rattles.
why would you want a Automatic Sportscar?
Also check out the early 90's Dodge Stealth R/T AWD Twin Turbo and Mitsubishi 3000 Twins and the early 90's Nissan 300ZX or a 4th Gen LT1 Camaro Z28/SS
('91 - '96). The 3000GT VR-4 and Dodge Stealth TT AWD
1990-96 Z32 Nissan 300zx Twin Turbo
1993-97 LT1 Camaro Z28/SS
Two friends have owned an import repair business for 20 years. The horror stories they tell about the enormous costs and frequency of repairs of older Benzes are awful and funny at the same time. They always have some version of what OP is asking about there, and whenever I say I'd like to have one they tell me "Go for it!" We need to put kids through college!"
That's what I want to hear. There has to be an obvious reason that an originally $90k car now sells for less than an originally $45k car!
Please register to post and access all features of our very popular forum. It is free and quick. Over $68,000 in prizes has already been given out to active posters on our forum. Additional giveaways are planned.
Detailed information about all U.S. cities, counties, and zip codes on our site: City-data.com.
Please register to participate in our discussions with 2 million other members - it's free and quick! Some forums can only be seen by registered members. After you create your account, you'll be able to customize options and access all our 15,000 new posts/day with fewer ads.
