a dose of reality for anyone who is considering a classic car of any type...the only difference is the price of parts and labor for the different makes. do not go into this expecting to have your barn find running 70mph down the highway next week. OTH, its the journey, man...nothing better than to revive a classic and feel that accomplishment.my first memory of a Benz is a mid-60's 220s fintail in Hawaii of all places...was just amazing the sense of quality in the thing...was just a kid but it has stayed with me always. thx for the great vid.
I used to commute two hours a day in my 230 from Long Beach to LA. Just put in oil and gas. It was like driving a reliable old tractor. I loved it. White with red interior too.
Wow $1200 to rebuild the carburetors ! I rebuilt them in my 1964 220S 3 years ago for $80 ( the price for the 2 kits) and running strong till today no problems.
I once 'fixed' the carbs on an Australian manufactured '62 220S by adding a 2 liter bottle of methylated spirits to a nearly full tank of fuel. After taking it on a 340km journey they performed really well.. It was just a tongue in cheek trial, but it paid off.
Absolutely on point, Pierre. The euro '68 250S I sorted out needed nearly the same work you describe here in order to be a reliable classic car thats outstanding to drive... the investment was significant, but the car is ready to live on for the next few decades with proper maintenance.
Who cares what it costs, the value in smiles is immeasurable! I love my 1965 220SEb, and you couldn't pay enough to buy it from me. Finnies ROCK! I would have more of them if I had the space.
Just picked up a 200d that was non running and full of rust. Got her running and working on floor boards etc. I knew this was going to be a very tuff project and in end will be very expensive but I will own a rare car on the road. Better than a lambo in my mind. Thanks for all the content and love your videos
Great information Pierre. Call me crazy, but I still want one. My first Mercedes was a '65 220S in the same dark grey as the 230S in your video but with a red leather interior and an automatic transmission. Bought it in '68 with 40K miles on it and put somewhere over 120K more on it over the next ten years.
Oh when you zoomed in on the keys that reminds me. I bought new keys from the dealer for my SEL and the plastic key head is broken. I plan to go get my keys made again with those ‘originals ‘ on an Italian brand ‘Ilco’ keys from the small locksmith shop I’ve used here. I had one made years ago from them for my SL and it is still holding up.
Just seeing this content from Portugal, didn't know the car was sent from here! I also have W110 that I love, don't know why fintails don't get the same love as other models :) Keep the great content coming!
I had a 1960, 220S, black with red leather purchased in 1968 when I was 18. It had 4 on the tree with an electric clutch, that my older German mechanic referred to as the "Hitler clutch". It was there because so many German men had lost legs during the war, but Mercedes didn't have an automatic transmission at the time. That was my second Mercedes. My first was a 1960, 190S, that still had the rounded body. It was hit while parked by a drunk driver. They were great cars.
What a beautiful w111 Fintail. My absolute favourite of all Mercs. The colour is perfect. As a kid, I remember my uncle getting one, in a sort of beige colour. It was about seven years old and hugely impressive to a ten year old boy. Thanks for sharing this one. Whoever owns it is very fortunate.
The toughest thing with Fintails is finding a good one. There are not very many finnies left in any condition it seems. I'd say that the amount of money and work it takes to fix things on a Fintail is about even with a W108, as the two cars are mechanically very similar. If you have a good one, the cost of maintenance is relatively low. But there's something special about the finnies that makes them unique. Perhaps it's the size of their trunk. I recently used my finny to bring a Christmas tree to the dump, and the attendant was quite surprised to see a full six-foot tree emerge from the trunk of my Mercedes!
We had a 64 fin tail 190D Mercedes, it was slow but ran so smooth and quiet on the highway, but driving around town with the windows down, you knew there was a diesel engine under the hood. I like the Becker Europa am/fm stereo radio.
I’ve just completely overhauled my w111 230s. You are spot on with your comments. I had to add a auto trans and re chrome to the job........... it added a lot more $$$ to the job.
The car I learned the most on was working on my '74 280. I agree, if you are patient a Heckflosse is an uncomplicated car to do your own work- even learn on.
There are two of these ( white one and a black one ) just sitting along with 4 or 5 other old cars in a car lot on a main road outside a town here in Czech Republic. I've passed them many times. All the glass is in them, and the paint doesn't look too bad. They are on gravel, and there doesn't seem to be much rust ( amazing considering they are kept outdoors in all weather )
Yep, Its always the little details that come to haunt you when you just dumped a couple thousand dollars into your car. Lol My Son found this out when he bought his 190E, he bought it for 3700 and has spent roughly $2200 in parts, tires, front end alignment and my labor is free. All major services are almost complete (Coolant flush, ignition service: plug wires, rotor, and cap. And re-place crankshaft seal, and fix AC)His next service is due at 90,000mi. : )
Yep. My high mileage $650 190E has become a $8000 investment over 55k miles and 3 years, good cars but sorting any old car is going to cost $$$. I bought a brand new VW because that's cheaper than driving these old cars on a daily basis, but I'm keeping my 190E around for car shows and autocrossing. I do most of the work on my cars myself, though I had the driveshaft center carrier bearing, front springs, and some exhaust work done by a shop. As a result the car drives like new and is a treat to drive.
242k miles, bought it with 193k. Overall it's been a pretty good car but I'm a perfectionist with most things mechanically. I'm hoping to do rear subframe mounts at some point and also swap in a 3.0L M103 to replace my oil burning 2.6 which will also allow me to repair a broken tail housing that I've temporarily mended with a formed steel sleeve. I'll take a hit for the engine if I start autocrossing competitively but it's worth it from a drivability standpoint as I have a good engine currently in a crap car and a good car with a crap engine.
DJ Wallick, when you buy a used Mercedes, what your son spent could be considered "normal". I spent over $3500 on that and more bringing my just-bought '82 300CD to what I call "back to new" specs and repairing other items--and this was at 118K miles. Things wear out, just like any other car. But your son will have a nice car after it's all done.
i got a 89 300e for 700, spent about 5k so far including maintenance (done by myself) restoration and rims (including suspension). Its slammed, stanced, and daily'd
30 years ago a friend of mine had one just like this, same color even. It was a beater then. My friend and the car are gone and I wish both were around today.
@@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753 Hi Pierre, after watching this video 3 years ago I was in the process of gathering parts to rebuild my 250S engine, its now completed and I cant be happier with the result, the car now drives and handles totally different, couldn't be happier! Well worth it to spend the bucks and do it the right way!
Value is a funny thing. What's it worth is way different from what it's worth to you. In my opinion, vintage Mercedes sedans can best be justified as a useful driving car where it competes very well against whatever else you could buy for regular driving. And it's way more interesting and satisfying.
Matt AdRev I was about to write something similar. @ whoever cuts these videos: please get him a wired mic. The content is great but is really hard to listen to.
+Matt AdRev thank you so much for the feedback, I’m sorry for your bad experience with the audio. I’m trying to lock in a substaing set up with lights, camera and audio which I’m getting closer to nailing down. Please continue to check out our videos as we continue to improve our channel with the generious contribution of our Patreon members. That make it possible to purchase the best equipment. Best regards Thomas RUclips creator.
Pierre--------------Despite the extensive costs as you described , to bring a classic Mercedes as close to 100 %, there is still one factor that should be included: A classic Mercedes can be purchased for roughly 2,OOO TO 4,000 DOLLARS. So the initial expense is close to nothing. It is difficult to pinpoint what a new 300 SEL would sell for if manufactured in 2018, but it is reasonable to assume in the $50,000 to $ 75,000 range. And if one will spend 5 to 10,000 dollars, these are available with UNDER 100,000 miles with immaculate interiors. For example, there is a 1980 500 SEL with a reported 79,000 miles available in the Tampa/Clearwater where I live and the owner says YES----you can take it for a short ride on the major highway. Still, one is stuck with perhaps $ 8,000 to $10,000 in repairs but he is asking only $1,400 for the car ( good leather interior). In other words, while the necessary repairs as you point out can really add up, the cost of a decent Mercedes classic is a bargain. Excellent video !!!!!!!!! I`d be interested in your thoughts, if you have time, on my comments----THANK YOU, Tom Burke
Tom, its true. the amount of car you get for the purchase and sorting cost basically equals the cost of a new car's depreciation. With a needy 560 $10-15k is more accurate but still- it's a great deal.
Hello, New to the channel, just subscribed. I want to eventually add a 220S/230S to stable. It's best if you can find one that has already been sorted, however because I like to turn wrenches it's not that scary to me. Even if one decides to have the work done by a shop like yours it's still not scary. As an example you find a decent shape Fintail, have it sorted as required and you would still pay much less than buying a newer looks like everything else boring to drive plastic pos. The car is over 60 plus years old, after having it sorted you can drive it another 60 years. Between 15 and 20K is a cheap deal for a half century of driving in a beauty like a Fintail.
My w110 had a gas 6 cylinder swapped into when I bought it. The m114 let go, found a mfi m130 euro out of a 280se and then a 3.27 lsd out of a 109. Come spring a little fintail hot rod. And I’ve got a 4 on the floor. These cars are way cheaper to hot rod than keep original. Hats off to the guys that do.
I owned a 19966 230s from 1989-2006 that my family had bought at an auto auction in 1978. Zenith carbs were pia and we should've put aftermarket on. Getting rid of that distributor cap (Bosch is good, but so expensive and wear out) and going electronic would be the way to do it. When the fuel pump went bad I installed a $15.00 universal electronic pump w/ a toggle switch to the battery from Kragen Auto parts that seemed to make it run way better than the original ever did. Very difficult to get the brakes not to "pull" on these and to actually work evenly, but when finally correct they always worked good. Not the easiest car to stop!!! 8 years later replaced the transmission with a used transmission from the wrecking yard which worked great with all new clutch parts. Had the luxury of having the motor rebuilt (Thanks Dad!) after I cracked the camshaft yet it was still operating at 80%. Yes, I got yelled at.🙄 Power steering system should ALWAYS be monitored on these as it will eventually tell you with the famous vintage Mercedes groan. They also have a tendency to run hot and then make the all metal radiator split at the top seam so waterpumps seem to go on these fairly often as well. After smog exempt finally happened(car was always a pia to smog) I cut exhaust pipe and installed cherry bomb exhaust into it. These vehicles are great when driving off-road (rally type driving) and the suspension is incredible with gas shocks. Basically a super heavy tank. Eventually, I cracked piston ring #1 and the the engine finally seized after driving it around for 2 years like that. Of course, the neighbors called the city to complain about a non-operating car on our property so the city forced me to sell it because they were threatening citations for a non-operating vehicle on the property. I hated selling that car!
Shouldn't have sold it. The city, no matter which one, has absolutely no jurisdictional authority to tell you to do anything. You have no contract with them unless you acquiesce and sign something you shouldn't. Tell them to f'ck themselves.
I have a W111 1964 Mercedes 220s 4 door sedan with 4 speed manual transmission on the column. I am in process of restoring the whole car. Question for you Pierre : what is the difference between a 220 and a 230 ?
My 1973 w114 280 purchased for $6,000 (in "pristine condition") quickly turned out to be $12,000 car after all the work i've put into it. And it's still far from being perfect. Actually i have this love/hate relationship with it. On one hand it looks stunning, on the other every time i drive it i'm just waiting for something to break.
I know for me, the cost to restore one of these cars is far out of my reach. Glad to see that some can do it but I'm pretty skeptical that most people have the proper knowledge to perform most of the work themselves to save money. I think I'll stick to the 1980's cars when it comes time to make a purchase.
My father had a '62 220SE he bought brand new. There was a never ending series of unfortunate events, he eventually traded it in for a Impala SS with a 454!😁 After a year of that he went back to a '66 200D!
Somehow I missed this video. I didn't have to take notes as my receipts perfectly echo your comments. Except the transmission, but only because I haven't sent it in for the synchros yet.
I took my license test in the first car in this video. Well, one just like it ! 41 years ago. Dad loved that car !! New England just rusted it away. Shame
So, I guess the other option is to find one that has already been sorted out and pay the cost upfront...at least for those who cannot do the work themselves (knowledge, place to do it).
I had a 66 230s. great solid car..I painted it .. did interior...( i traded a Rickenbacker for it)..It ran incredible for 2 yrs...trans went wonky... i regret getting rid of it..
It's sad, I really love the fintail body... Some years ago there was a 220S modified running here in rio de janeiro; the guy has installed a GM engine (250 blue flame six) and gearbox. It was a black one, kinda sinistrous but it doesn't exists anymore, was scraped...
@6:20 you stated that you aren’t trying to scare off anyone from a 220/230S. Too late. Six minutes of punching in repair costs on my calculator cured me. I love finnies but not that deeply. I might as well go whole hog on a 6.3 or 6.9 instead. Just saying...
My dad had a 1970 300sel 6.3 which was an incredible car. I used to drive it for many years as a teenager and that car would hit 150mph. As far as comparing the repairs of a 6.3 to a 230s it is the difference between the cost of a Beverly Hills mansion and a cardboard box. The airbag suspension system in the 6.3 are notorious for leaking(dry out/crack) and extremely expensive to repair. The parts are super hard to find! Now days the number of mechanics that know how to work on and troubleshoot 6.3/6.9 cars with proper experience can be counted on one hand and when you find one they aren't going to be cheap! The fuel consumption alone will make you go broke. Probably a $15 grocery trip! Great cars to drive when dad is paying to repair them. Jay Leno can afford it. I would seriously say that it is Ferrari expensive to work on.
I hate to sound like a broken record but this is why you get a good Pre-purchase Inspection. If you go into buying a car with your eyes open these expenses are factored into the decision to buy the car (and how much you will pay). Buying the car and then finding out it needs an engine rebuild and trans work would be a gut punch if you didn't know in advance what you were getting into.
@@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753 I might have bought it too even knowing it needed engine and trans work. Its when you buy one that you think has been sorted out and pay the $$ for it then find out you need to put more $$ that's when you get buyers remorse.
Hello sir Am restoring a w111 230S in which online site are the parts available I need body parts a new zenith carb setup and engine parts also Please help.
There are two kinds of Mercedes-Benz fans: those who still own one (or more) and spend crazy money, and those who are happy to say "Yes, I was a great fan and now I have moved on. I celebrate that phase of my life and I still love them from afar but now I drive Lexus and I am happy".
Pierre - As you know, I have a grey market W126. Can you make a video discussing the process and cost of returning a grey market car to its originally intended configuration?
mdough7766 a very good idea. I tried saving a euro 500 sec. It the car was destroyed. The coolant tank became a muffler from so much exhaust gasses coming put of it. Like where to spurce a good euro motor amd cams, solid lifter conversions, headlights and vaccum to them, on and on
Hi Pierre, I have an issue with my finnie where pushing the wiper pedal does not squirt water out. tested the squirt motor separately and it works. When pressing the pedal the wipers activate OK, is there a common issue with the wiring between the pedal and the squirt motor?
so the wiper pedal has an electric switch in it that turns on the wipers. The wiper squirter is a simple bladder that pushes compressed air into the wiper line when pushed, and sucks wiper fluid into the wiper line when released. Check and see if the wiper squirter is clear and make sure that the wiper valve holds suction.
My ever first car was a 220s fine tail I make a mistake by selling it I wish I could find it again at the same states and buy it back for 20 times the the price I get for it when I sold it
i own a 220S that was a taxi in the city i live wich isn´t big but nice to live in only bought it in 82 allthough since 1971 i had ride in it when asking for a taxi in 82 the owner had paint it with the original colour before it was a taxi wich was a dirty white or Ivory and the steering wheel was made of ivory, and after all this years it rides perfect with the extra confort of the giant leather seats in red of those days not orange as i have seen today, , isn´t a fast car but still can do a long trip and very confortable even being from 1959, no doubt that mercedes was maybe the best brand in the world as i heard for a lot of years being the first brand the Rolls-Royce ,not the today cars from this long lost brand that don´t have nothing especial compaqred with the still riding older cars since the 50´s models ,the wrath is a incredible car ,the way one feels it pushing with a lot of strenght but outside seems like the engine is off, i didn´t ment faster in first 100 meters but the strenght of the engine ,as it wasn´t a sport car for that there were the Bentleys that were equal but with more power
You mention the 123 electric ignition system is far more reliable than the pertronix system, I was under the impression that the pertronix system works very well?
The 600sec is an amazing car...maintaining and repairing one is going to take a huge amount of work. I think that excellent examples will certainly be collectible.
Hello, Pierre. I inherited two project cars from my father earlier this year. One is a 1965 W110 190D with a bad 200D engine (not original). The car is automatic and has factory air--no other options to speak of. The other is a 1979 W123 240D with a 10k mile rebuilt engine, good auto transmission, air conditioning, and power accessories; however, the body and interior are total shit. Before Dad passed away, he asked me to save the '65 190 by putting the '79's engine and transmission in it. Can you tell me if it's possible? I am in eastern Kentucky, so I'll need to find someone local if this can be done. Thanks in advance for any help, -Lance
Hi Lance....please email me at mbownersforlife@bellsouth.net. objecdtively speaking, yes it is, but it will take a little work. glad you are saving the w110.
My first car was a '63 220SEb a rust free nightmare. Please give us a total. I'm glad I chose to get a '77 BMW R100RS motorcycle, after all is done it will be probably in the order of $8-10k😅😢🎉
I couldn't hear how much the engine rebuild value was? Yes a restoration/refurbishment is expensive but it's worth it. Compare with a classic Rolls Royce Silver Shadow, small purchase price but massive cost of upkeep, the Merc once sorted is a lot more economical going forward.
Hahahaha ,matey I’ve just purchased a 1960 finni ,hahahaha and you are the first video I chased up fairdinkum cobba can’t wait to show the missuss,hahahaha beautiful!im fukn broke now hahahaha but I luv my old beautiful s ,they are absolutely worth every fukn penny,!!!!!!,beautiful
I came this close to getting a ‘69 280SE. Omg it is freaking gorgeous. Look at that front end!!! It gleams!! It screams ‘drive me’!!! There was a baby blue on white one online as well. This one is light yellow. A road trip to AZ would have been fun. Lol www.webeautos.com/detail-1969-mercedes~benz-280se-4~door_for_sale-used-16373398.html
I Love the F_ing Car It was the first Mercedes i rode in in the 60's ( My Mother's cousin Car ) and would certainly would love to have one like that ALL sorted out and in that Color ; This vehicle and a 1990 W 126 300 SE await my Future ( God willing ! )
Joe Gomez get that w126 300 quickly. The v8 models are on the rise and the 6 zyl models will follow. My 1990 300 SEL is the best car ive ever owned and with 273k miles still runs beautifully
It doesn't matter how much you spend in your Mercedes Benz, you'll enjoy having the best car in the world running perfectly, if not get yourself a BMW.
Greg Etchason that means my free 1990 300 SEL is the most expensive one ever! Not really honestly but v8 models, can see that logic. My 300 is almost completely sorted for less than 5k including reworked head
I had a 1961 W111 22Os fintail sedan and I stoped spending money on that car (the differential noise just kill me, as in all pre 96 Mercedes differencials (they are noisy and vibrate, specialy when you put your foot on the gas pedal or, even worst, when you leave your foot off the gas pedal)!!... And Mercedes-Benz dealers don’t sell all the parts to rebuid those things 🤷🏻♂️🤦🏻♂️🤦🏻♂️🤦🏻♂️🤦🏻♂️ I just passed trough all of that in a almost “perfect” W124... restoring an MB like it should it will cost you a lot!!!
I suppose then, that these 220 and 230 models are worth what people are willing to spend on them. I’m sure they simply accept it as the price to be paid if one wishes to drive a cool, high quality vintage classic, rather than drive an expensive piece of plastic shit, like one would get from a new car dealership nowadays.
Hey Pierre you might be interested in a 300 series convertible featured on 'Dennis Collins" channel Ep31 "unearthing mob_style Mercedes....beautiful car!
I wouldn't say that, but the impetus for this video was because I had a few people ask about fin cars...and yes, the sorting cost is high but it is what it is.
a dose of reality for anyone who is considering a classic car of any type...the only difference is the price of parts and labor for the different makes. do not go into this expecting to have your barn find running 70mph down the highway next week. OTH, its the journey, man...nothing better than to revive a classic and feel that accomplishment.my first memory of a Benz is a mid-60's 220s fintail in Hawaii of all places...was just amazing the sense of quality in the thing...was just a kid but it has stayed with me always. thx for the great vid.
I used to commute two hours a day in my 230 from Long Beach to LA. Just put in oil and gas. It was like driving a reliable old tractor. I loved it. White with red interior too.
Did you ever work on it.
Wow $1200 to rebuild the carburetors ! I rebuilt them in my 1964 220S 3 years ago for $80 ( the price for the 2 kits) and running strong till today no problems.
yeah I do not why it would cost 1200
I once 'fixed' the carbs on an Australian manufactured '62 220S by adding a 2 liter bottle of methylated spirits to a nearly full tank of fuel.
After taking it on a 340km journey
they performed really well..
It was just a tongue in cheek trial, but it paid off.
Absolutely on point, Pierre. The euro '68 250S I sorted out needed nearly the same work you describe here in order to be a reliable classic car thats outstanding to drive... the investment was significant, but the car is ready to live on for the next few decades with proper maintenance.
I would still rather pay for this than a new hyundai...
Who cares what it costs, the value in smiles is immeasurable! I love my 1965 220SEb, and you couldn't pay enough to buy it from me. Finnies ROCK! I would have more of them if I had the space.
Totally agree with you
Just picked up a 200d that was non running and full of rust. Got her running and working on floor boards etc. I knew this was going to be a very tuff project and in end will be very expensive but I will own a rare car on the road. Better than a lambo in my mind. Thanks for all the content and love your videos
that's awesome !! good luck getting her back on the road!!!
Great information Pierre. Call me crazy, but I still want one. My first Mercedes was a '65 220S in the same dark grey as the 230S in your video but with a red leather interior and an automatic transmission. Bought it in '68 with 40K miles on it and put somewhere over 120K more on it over the next ten years.
I’ve always wanted one of these fintail sedans, with those glass European headlight lenses. For now, I’ve settled on a 1:64 scale die cast model.
It ant that bad I got one simple to fix things go ahead and buy one I just got a nice one cheap
I have two diecast models, and I still have not been able to get up to size so I can drive it! 😅
Oh when you zoomed in on the keys that reminds me. I bought new keys from the dealer for my SEL and the plastic key head is broken. I plan to go get my keys made again with those ‘originals ‘ on an Italian brand ‘Ilco’ keys from the small locksmith shop I’ve used here. I had one made years ago from them for my SL and it is still holding up.
the plastic key heads are junk....everyone complains...mercedes doesn;t listen...atleast we can still get keys
Thats a wonderful idea.😊
Just seeing this content from Portugal, didn't know the car was sent from here! I also have W110 that I love, don't know why fintails don't get the same love as other models :) Keep the great content coming!
I had a 1960, 220S, black with red leather purchased in 1968 when I was 18. It had 4 on the tree with an electric clutch, that my older German mechanic referred to as the "Hitler clutch". It was there because so many German men had lost legs during the war, but Mercedes didn't have an automatic transmission at the time. That was my second Mercedes. My first was a 1960, 190S, that still had the rounded body. It was hit while parked by a drunk driver. They were great cars.
What a beautiful w111 Fintail. My absolute favourite of all Mercs. The colour is perfect. As a kid, I remember my uncle getting one, in a sort of beige colour. It was about seven years old and hugely impressive to a ten year old boy. Thanks for sharing this one. Whoever owns it is very fortunate.
it is a fantastic car...basic classy, simple, tough....working on it was a pleasure
I got a 190 it’s a piece of cake to work on I love it and I love you to
The toughest thing with Fintails is finding a good one. There are not very many finnies left in any condition it seems. I'd say that the amount of money and work it takes to fix things on a Fintail is about even with a W108, as the two cars are mechanically very similar. If you have a good one, the cost of maintenance is relatively low. But there's something special about the finnies that makes them unique. Perhaps it's the size of their trunk. I recently used my finny to bring a Christmas tree to the dump, and the attendant was quite surprised to see a full six-foot tree emerge from the trunk of my Mercedes!
it's true...."perfect, no needs" fin cars really don;t exist. you have to buy the best one you can find and do whatever it needs
We had a 64 fin tail 190D Mercedes, it was slow but ran so smooth and quiet on the highway, but driving around town with the windows down, you knew there was a diesel engine under the hood. I like the Becker Europa am/fm stereo radio.
I’ve just completely overhauled my w111 230s. You are spot on with your comments. I had to add a auto trans and re chrome to the job........... it added a lot more $$$ to the job.
I am glad you did it though. Good work!!!
I love the classic Mercedes info and strong Tim and Eric Awesome Show vibes from the production and awkward silences. You've earned a subscriber!
thank you!!
The car I learned the most on was working on my '74 280. I agree, if you are patient a Heckflosse is an uncomplicated car to do your own work- even learn on.
There are two of these ( white one and a black one ) just sitting along with 4 or 5 other old cars in a car lot on a main road outside a town here in Czech Republic. I've passed them many times. All the glass is in them, and the paint doesn't look too bad. They are on gravel, and there doesn't seem to be much rust ( amazing considering they are kept outdoors in all weather )
Yep, Its always the little details that come to haunt you when you just dumped a couple thousand dollars into your car. Lol
My Son found this out when he bought his 190E, he bought it for 3700 and has spent roughly $2200 in parts, tires, front end alignment and my labor is free. All major services are almost complete (Coolant flush, ignition service: plug wires, rotor, and cap. And re-place crankshaft seal, and fix AC)His next service is due at 90,000mi. : )
Yep. My high mileage $650 190E has become a $8000 investment over 55k miles and 3 years, good cars but sorting any old car is going to cost $$$. I bought a brand new VW because that's cheaper than driving these old cars on a daily basis, but I'm keeping my 190E around for car shows and autocrossing. I do most of the work on my cars myself, though I had the driveshaft center carrier bearing, front springs, and some exhaust work done by a shop. As a result the car drives like new and is a treat to drive.
@@ACabral711Wow thats a hefty one! Mileage?
242k miles, bought it with 193k. Overall it's been a pretty good car but I'm a perfectionist with most things mechanically. I'm hoping to do rear subframe mounts at some point and also swap in a 3.0L M103 to replace my oil burning 2.6 which will also allow me to repair a broken tail housing that I've temporarily mended with a formed steel sleeve. I'll take a hit for the engine if I start autocrossing competitively but it's worth it from a drivability standpoint as I have a good engine currently in a crap car and a good car with a crap engine.
DJ Wallick, when you buy a used Mercedes, what your son spent could be considered "normal". I spent over $3500 on that and more bringing my just-bought '82 300CD to what I call "back to new" specs and repairing other items--and this was at 118K miles. Things wear out, just like any other car. But your son will have a nice car after it's all done.
i got a 89 300e for 700, spent about 5k so far including maintenance (done by myself) restoration and rims (including suspension). Its slammed, stanced, and daily'd
30 years ago a friend of mine had one just like this, same color even. It was a beater then. My friend and the car are gone and I wish both were around today.
Spot on with the costs Pierre...but I love driving them and will continue to maintain mine.
still cheaper than a new camry@!!
@@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753 Hi Pierre, after watching this video 3 years ago I was in the process of gathering parts to rebuild my 250S engine, its now completed and I cant be happier with the result, the car now drives and handles totally different, couldn't be happier! Well worth it to spend the bucks and do it the right way!
Value is a funny thing. What's it worth is way different from what it's worth to you. In my opinion, vintage Mercedes sedans can best be justified as a useful driving car where it competes very well against whatever else you could buy for regular driving. And it's way more interesting and satisfying.
I agree. I did the same exact things to my w108 280se 4.5...now with 291k miles.
At this point I wouldn't be mad if you just talked directly into a wired mic. We wanna hear you louad and clear!
Matt AdRev I was about to write something similar. @ whoever cuts these videos: please get him a wired mic. The content is great but is really hard to listen to.
+Matt AdRev thank you so much for the feedback, I’m sorry for your bad experience with the audio. I’m trying to lock in a substaing set up with lights, camera and audio which I’m getting closer to nailing down. Please continue to check out our videos as we continue to improve our channel with the generious contribution of our Patreon members. That make it possible to purchase the best equipment.
Best regards
Thomas RUclips creator.
Agreed! The sound is awfull. Sorry Pierre keep up the good work!
Pierre--------------Despite the extensive costs as you described , to bring a classic Mercedes as close to 100 %, there is still one factor that should be included: A classic Mercedes can be purchased for roughly 2,OOO TO 4,000 DOLLARS. So the initial expense is close to nothing. It is difficult to pinpoint what a new 300 SEL would sell for if manufactured in 2018, but it is reasonable to assume in the $50,000 to $ 75,000 range. And if one will spend 5 to 10,000 dollars, these are available with UNDER 100,000 miles with immaculate interiors.
For example, there is a 1980 500 SEL with a reported 79,000 miles available in the Tampa/Clearwater where I live
and the owner says YES----you can take it for a short ride on the major highway. Still, one is stuck with perhaps $ 8,000 to $10,000 in repairs but he is asking only $1,400 for the car ( good leather interior). In other words, while the necessary repairs as you point out can really add up, the cost of a decent Mercedes classic is a bargain. Excellent video !!!!!!!!! I`d be interested in your thoughts, if you have time, on my comments----THANK YOU, Tom Burke
Tom, its true. the amount of car you get for the purchase and sorting cost basically equals the cost of a new car's depreciation. With a needy 560 $10-15k is more accurate but still- it's a great deal.
dude...... you have a fleet of stunning cars but no mic... new subscriber here, please get a mic lol
i hear you loud and clear...thank you
love the videos! great content, great attitude. Im currently weighing up the pros and cons of a w114 vs w126! @@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753
Hello,
New to the channel, just subscribed.
I want to eventually add a 220S/230S to stable.
It's best if you can find one that has already been sorted, however because I like to turn wrenches it's not that scary to me. Even if one decides to have the work done by a shop like yours it's still not scary.
As an example you find a decent shape Fintail, have it sorted as required and you would still pay much less than buying a newer looks like everything else boring to drive plastic pos.
The car is over 60 plus years old, after having it sorted you can drive it another 60 years.
Between 15 and 20K is a cheap deal for a half century of driving in a beauty like a Fintail.
Love that gray beauty. I am very jealous
BEAUTIFUL CAR !!!
Love your vids more and more by the day, just as I love my 420SEL more and more by the day!!!
Very valuable information and very expensive to complete all of these things. But if you really love the car and can afford this, why not ???
Exactly!
I think people still need to know. Some people buy these cars and want to make them perfect for peanuts
My w110 had a gas 6 cylinder swapped into when I bought it. The m114 let go, found a mfi m130 euro out of a 280se and then a 3.27 lsd out of a 109. Come spring a little fintail hot rod. And I’ve got a 4 on the floor. These cars are way cheaper to hot rod than keep original. Hats off to the guys that do.
I like the result.
I owned a 19966 230s from 1989-2006 that my family had bought at an auto auction in 1978. Zenith carbs were pia and we should've put aftermarket on. Getting rid of that distributor cap (Bosch is good, but so expensive and wear out) and going electronic would be the way to do it. When the fuel pump went bad I installed a $15.00 universal electronic pump w/ a toggle switch to the battery from Kragen Auto parts that seemed to make it run way better than the original ever did. Very difficult to get the brakes not to "pull" on these and to actually work evenly, but when finally correct they always worked good. Not the easiest car to stop!!! 8 years later replaced the transmission with a used transmission from the wrecking yard which worked great with all new clutch parts. Had the luxury of having the motor rebuilt (Thanks Dad!) after I cracked the camshaft yet it was still operating at 80%. Yes, I got yelled at.🙄 Power steering system should ALWAYS be monitored on these as it will eventually tell you with the famous vintage Mercedes groan. They also have a tendency to run hot and then make the all metal radiator split at the top seam so waterpumps seem to go on these fairly often as well. After smog exempt finally happened(car was always a pia to smog) I cut exhaust pipe and installed cherry bomb exhaust into it. These vehicles are great when driving off-road (rally type driving) and the suspension is incredible with gas shocks. Basically a super heavy tank. Eventually, I cracked piston ring #1 and the the engine finally seized after driving it around for 2 years like that. Of course, the neighbors called the city to complain about a non-operating car on our property so the city forced me to sell it because they were threatening citations for a non-operating vehicle on the property. I hated selling that car!
Shouldn't have sold it. The city, no matter which one, has absolutely no jurisdictional authority to tell you to do anything. You have no contract with them unless you acquiesce and sign something you shouldn't. Tell them to f'ck themselves.
I have a W111 1964 Mercedes 220s 4 door sedan with 4 speed manual transmission on the column.
I am in process of restoring the whole car.
Question for you Pierre : what is the difference between a 220 and a 230 ?
My 1973 w114 280 purchased for $6,000 (in "pristine condition") quickly turned out to be $12,000 car after all the work i've put into it. And it's still far from being perfect. Actually i have this love/hate relationship with it. On one hand it looks stunning, on the other every time i drive it i'm just waiting for something to break.
you shouldn't be waiting for something to break, but I am sure you still have more time and money to go.
My friend has the same relationship with the dreaded Porsche 911 996. $25,000 in the engine alone.
I know for me, the cost to restore one of these cars is far out of my reach. Glad to see that some can do it but I'm pretty skeptical that most people have the proper knowledge to perform most of the work themselves to save money. I think I'll stick to the 1980's cars when it comes time to make a purchase.
It's much cheaper when you do your own work. I think you would be fine
My father had a '62 220SE he bought brand new. There was a never ending series of unfortunate events, he eventually traded it in for a Impala SS with a 454!😁 After a year of that he went back to a '66 200D!
Somehow I missed this video. I didn't have to take notes as my receipts perfectly echo your comments. Except the transmission, but only because I haven't sent it in for the synchros yet.
I took my license test in the first car in this video. Well, one just like it ! 41 years ago. Dad loved that car !! New England just rusted it away. Shame
So, I guess the other option is to find one that has already been sorted out and pay the cost upfront...at least for those who cannot do the work themselves (knowledge, place to do it).
I had a 66 230s. great solid car..I painted it .. did interior...( i traded a Rickenbacker for it)..It ran incredible for 2 yrs...trans went wonky... i regret getting rid of it..
sometimes mechanical repairs scare us more than they should
It's sad, I really love the fintail body...
Some years ago there was a 220S modified running here in rio de janeiro; the guy has installed a GM engine (250 blue flame six) and gearbox. It was a black one, kinda sinistrous but it doesn't exists anymore, was scraped...
once people start modifying these things the next stop is the wrecking yard....GM engine is basically the kiss of death
@@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753 lol
@6:20 you stated that you aren’t trying to scare off anyone from a 220/230S. Too late. Six minutes of punching in repair costs on my calculator cured me. I love finnies but not that deeply. I might as well go whole hog on a 6.3 or 6.9 instead. Just saying...
My dad had a 1970 300sel 6.3 which was an incredible car. I used to drive it for many years as a teenager and that car would hit 150mph. As far as comparing the repairs of a 6.3 to a 230s it is the difference between the cost of a Beverly Hills mansion and a cardboard box. The airbag suspension system in the 6.3 are notorious for leaking(dry out/crack) and extremely expensive to repair. The parts are super hard to find! Now days the number of mechanics that know how to work on and troubleshoot 6.3/6.9 cars with proper experience can be counted on one hand and when you find one they aren't going to be cheap! The fuel consumption alone will make you go broke. Probably a $15 grocery trip! Great cars to drive when dad is paying to repair them. Jay Leno can afford it. I would seriously say that it is Ferrari expensive to work on.
6.3 or 6.9 , 10 time the cost .
I hate to sound like a broken record but this is why you get a good Pre-purchase Inspection. If you go into buying a car with your eyes open these expenses are factored into the decision to buy the car (and how much you will pay). Buying the car and then finding out it needs an engine rebuild and trans work would be a gut punch if you didn't know in advance what you were getting into.
No such thing as a fully sorted Ronnie for sale
You can;t really buy a good fin tail....a prepurchase inspection is a good idea but I would have still favored this car- it had no rust.
@@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753 I might have bought it too even knowing it needed engine and trans work. Its when you buy one that you think has been sorted out and pay the $$ for it then find out you need to put more $$ that's when you get buyers remorse.
Add a right brake light bulb to that list.
Sorry did you have the code of paint grey ?
Hello sir
Am restoring a w111 230S in which online site are the parts available
I need body parts a new zenith carb setup and engine parts also
Please help.
Could you please tell which new mercedes engine&transmission can be put in this car?
Greets from Cairo, Egypt ❤
Nice work, I am looking for W110 for restoration project, how much do you think it worth for accepting condition with not much rusty points?
There are two kinds of Mercedes-Benz fans: those who still own one (or more) and spend crazy money, and those who are happy to say "Yes, I was a great fan and now I have moved on. I celebrate that phase of my life and I still love them from afar but now I drive Lexus and I am happy".
Not true of Mercedes after the W123
I'm in South Fla, is it possible to add a/c to one of these cars?
I just purchase 1961 220 se runs not much rust . I hope one day I can afford to rebuild the car .
that's awesome, especially because it is a '61.
Pierre - As you know, I have a grey market W126. Can you make a video discussing the process and cost of returning a grey market car to its originally intended configuration?
mdough7766 a very good idea. I tried saving a euro 500 sec. It the car was destroyed. The coolant tank became a muffler from so much exhaust gasses coming put of it. Like where to spurce a good euro motor amd cams, solid lifter conversions, headlights and vaccum to them, on and on
I shall....tomorrow your new plenum goes on
I am going to put the gray market video together next week.
@@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753 Cool! That will be "must see TV."
Hi Pierre, I have an issue with my finnie where pushing the wiper pedal does not squirt water out. tested the squirt motor separately and it works. When pressing the pedal the wipers activate OK, is there a common issue with the wiring between the pedal and the squirt motor?
so the wiper pedal has an electric switch in it that turns on the wipers. The wiper squirter is a simple bladder that pushes compressed air into the wiper line when pushed, and sucks wiper fluid into the wiper line when released. Check and see if the wiper squirter is clear and make sure that the wiper valve holds suction.
My ever first car was a 220s fine tail I make a mistake by selling it I wish I could find it again at the same states and buy it back for 20 times the the price I get for it when I sold it
Nothing wrong with the original points ignition , the newer transistor one was not reliable , keep the original on .
i own a 220S that was a taxi in the city i live wich isn´t big but nice to live in only bought it in 82 allthough since 1971 i had ride in it when asking for a taxi in 82 the owner had paint it with the original colour before it was a taxi wich was a dirty white or Ivory and the steering wheel was made of ivory, and after all this years it rides perfect with the extra confort of the giant leather seats in red of those days not orange as i have seen today, , isn´t a fast car but still can do a long trip and very confortable even being from 1959, no doubt that mercedes was maybe the best brand in the world as i heard for a lot of years being the first brand the Rolls-Royce ,not the today cars from this long lost brand that don´t have nothing especial compaqred with the still riding older cars since the 50´s models ,the wrath is a incredible car ,the way one feels it pushing with a lot of strenght but outside seems like the engine is off, i didn´t ment faster in first 100 meters but the strenght of the engine ,as it wasn´t a sport car for that there were the Bentleys that were equal but with more power
Most beautiful car of the upper middle class years 60-70
You mention the 123 electric ignition system is far more reliable than the pertronix system, I was under the impression that the pertronix system works very well?
I have seen too many pertronix failures....123 or stock but no add on electronics
Great vid! Generally what's the opion of the 600 SEC, loaded techno, yes, however is it a future classic? keep up the great work/vids!! and thank you.
The 600sec is an amazing car...maintaining and repairing one is going to take a huge amount of work. I think that excellent examples will certainly be collectible.
Like the vid great info. Perhaps recorder in less of echo chamber with better acoustics ?
+Dino Dave thank you so much for the feedback. We are always making improvements for our channel in every aspect.
Regards
Thomas RUclips creator
Hello, Pierre.
I inherited two project cars from my father earlier this year. One is a 1965 W110 190D with a bad 200D engine (not original). The car is automatic and has factory air--no other options to speak of. The other is a 1979 W123 240D with a 10k mile rebuilt engine, good auto transmission, air conditioning, and power accessories; however, the body and interior are total shit. Before Dad passed away, he asked me to save the '65 190 by putting the '79's engine and transmission in it. Can you tell me if it's possible? I am in eastern Kentucky, so I'll need to find someone local if this can be done.
Thanks in advance for any help,
-Lance
Hi Lance....please email me at mbownersforlife@bellsouth.net. objecdtively speaking, yes it is, but it will take a little work. glad you are saving the w110.
Any one know where I could get a drivers side fin? On a 68 230s
The older the Mercedes the car is superior to others of the same Era by 2000 most caught up to Benz except for the S class.
My first car was a '63 220SEb a rust free nightmare. Please give us a total. I'm glad I chose to get a '77 BMW R100RS motorcycle, after all is done it will be probably in the order of $8-10k😅😢🎉
How about the 220 SE and 300 SE?
Makes my '77BMW RS restoration seem reasonable!
I couldn't hear how much the engine rebuild value was? Yes a restoration/refurbishment is expensive but it's worth it. Compare with a classic Rolls Royce Silver Shadow, small purchase price but massive cost of upkeep, the Merc once sorted is a lot more economical going forward.
Hahahaha ,matey I’ve just purchased a 1960 finni ,hahahaha and you are the first video I chased up fairdinkum cobba can’t wait to show the missuss,hahahaha beautiful!im fukn broke now hahahaha but I luv my old beautiful s ,they are absolutely worth every fukn penny,!!!!!!,beautiful
Hey Pierre, new camera? Nice!
maybe...I will ask Thomas! thank you.
Can you turbo a 220S?
I would be happy to share the details and pictures
please email me at mbownersforlife@bellsouth.net. i would love to see more.
I came this close to getting a ‘69 280SE. Omg it is freaking gorgeous. Look at that front end!!! It gleams!! It screams ‘drive me’!!! There was a baby blue on white one online as well. This one is light yellow. A road trip to AZ would have been fun. Lol
www.webeautos.com/detail-1969-mercedes~benz-280se-4~door_for_sale-used-16373398.html
I Love the F_ing Car It was the first Mercedes i rode in in the 60's ( My Mother's cousin Car ) and would certainly would love to have one like that ALL sorted out and in that Color ; This vehicle and a 1990 W 126 300 SE await my Future ( God willing ! )
Joe Gomez get that w126 300 quickly. The v8 models are on the rise and the 6 zyl models will follow. My 1990 300 SEL is the best car ive ever owned and with 273k miles still runs beautifully
hahaha...ladies and gentlemen...Joe Gomez!!
Audio not the best, but sounded like it added up to $17,500.
It doesn't matter how much you spend in your Mercedes Benz, you'll enjoy having the best car in the world running perfectly, if not get yourself a BMW.
amen!
LoL - ok, I have a confession.... I also have a BMW 😄
The Best Or Nothing will only do for me!Thankyou very much 😊
@@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753 I used to have the 230s in mint condition ,
The most expensive Mercedes is the cheapest one.
Greg Etchason that means my free 1990 300 SEL is the most expensive one ever! Not really honestly but v8 models, can see that logic. My 300 is almost completely sorted for less than 5k including reworked head
Not always but with the newest models yes
That isn't really true.
I had a 1961 W111 22Os fintail sedan and I stoped spending money on that car (the differential noise just kill me, as in all pre 96 Mercedes differencials (they are noisy and vibrate, specialy when you put your foot on the gas pedal or, even worst, when you leave your foot off the gas pedal)!!... And Mercedes-Benz dealers don’t sell all the parts to rebuid those things 🤷🏻♂️🤦🏻♂️🤦🏻♂️🤦🏻♂️🤦🏻♂️
I just passed trough all of that in a almost “perfect” W124... restoring an MB like it should it will cost you a lot!!!
I suppose then, that these 220 and 230 models are worth what people are willing to spend on them. I’m sure they simply accept it as the price to be paid if one wishes to drive a cool, high quality vintage classic, rather than drive an expensive piece of plastic shit, like one would get from a new car dealership nowadays.
9k for a rebuild? I’m putting an LS1 in mine now.
probably worth more in parts than they are whole
Hey Pierre you might be interested in a 300 series convertible featured on 'Dennis Collins" channel Ep31 "unearthing mob_style Mercedes....beautiful car!
wow....i am going to look it up
Beautiful car...........all said and done probably cheaper than 2016 camry...i know what i'd rather have!!
I agree
cheaper than any new car, really
3:05 5$ microphone/pop-filter expenditure.
Salut my friend super car super video subscribe subscribe ....
Sound quality is bad!
Mercedes cars meant for billionaires, lol!
I wouldn't say that, but the impetus for this video was because I had a few people ask about fin cars...and yes, the sorting cost is high but it is what it is.
Please check out my friend Dave Tobin's channel, Mercedes Market!
ruclips.net/channel/UCyABlrap-g2DK52rdgdQ-tQ
Buy a better microphone.
lmao just swap it
slap a 1j in it with an ecu and tune for like 6k
fantastic cars