Mercedes Benz - Picking the Right Classic Car

A classic luxury car holds immense allure for most auto lovers, and a true vintage Mercedes Benz is a lifetime investment. Regardless of whether you are a seasoned car enthusiast or a budding collector, be sure to do your research and deal with reputable dealers to ensure that the model you invest in is the right choice for you.

Is a Vintage Mercedes for You?

Not every car owner covets a classic, but vintage luxury releases are often the dream car for many a collector. A Mercedes that is at least 20 years old may not be ideal as an everyday car, but makes for a stylish weekend or getaway vehicle. Add to it the satisfaction of knowing that the car itself cost a fraction of a brand-new release and you have an investment that actually pays for itself in time.

For most auto owners, however, opting for pre-owned releases means more than money saved. For starters, a regularly maintained used car can actually make for a good investment. More importantly, the sheer class and sophistication of a classic is indisputable. An SL roadster released in the mid-80s, for instance, still rules the roost as a preferred vintage model, and releases featuring a detachable hard top such as the Mercedes-Benz R107 have universal appeal.

Vintage Car Valuations

When it comes to luxury cars, a classic model has an innate appeal that far transcends any brand new release. Some of the less popular models including the w108 and w109 releases are in reality grossly undervalued and may actually mean a great deal if negotiated right. Be it a brand new model or a classic piece, a range of factors will decide the final valuation and inherent worth of any model. When picking vintage cars, most buyers look for less mileage stats but this is actually a very misleading guideline to base a purchase on.

A classic that clocks 160k miles may in fact be well-maintained and in better shape than one that shows lesser miles driven but has not been adequately restored or serviced. When choosing an older Mercedes Benz, it also makes sense to check typical problem areas, particularly the AC system and heater issues. Replacing compressors or engine valves can be pricey so figure in any immediate workups before investing in low-cost offers. In addition to being expensive in terms of maintenance and servicing, worn valves can be unsafe and may make the car smoke during acceleration, so be sure that the steam seals are in top shape before considering any classic sale.

In most cases, buyers may choose to opt for expert valuation and a personal inspection, but a test drive is an absolute must before striking a deal. Insist on driving the model from complete rest, preferably when the engine is not warmed up to help check endurance and response to harsh weathers. Typically measured in terms of trigger points, this can be crucial to examining pickup and performance particularly on longer drives. A test drive can also help ascertain obvious suspension issues and engine mounting, which may otherwise not be apparent on physical inspection.

With the Mercedes Benz, the key to picking a truly priceless classic is patience and persistence. As with any car purchase, a vintage release is still a significant investment so be sure to consult a registered expert for a thorough evaluation and do your market research before choosing the right model.