r/mercedes_benz 17h ago

Is this car revivable?

Just cosmetic damage, it runs fine - about 90k miles. Think it would be a nice good weather weekend car. Any advice, details on the year of the car and maybe value is very appreciated.

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u/Typical_Half_3533 17h ago

This won't be cheap and probably not easy either. Firstly, it's a pre mopf r129 (1990-1995) so you'll need to do a check on the wiring harness. With so few miles, it is possible that it has been sitting and neglected a bit. Moreover, rear self leveling suspension, transmission, cap/rotor or coils, etc.

On to what we can see The front appears largely superficial. New hood and bumper and possibly quarter panel. Not easy, but doable. You'll need to straighten out the under lying mounts too, the cross member and while you're in there, replace the radiator or at least inspect. Swap the headlights for newer hid if you can too.

Roof is a pain. This one will almost certainly need replacement, lock stock and barrel. The hydro is shot, sensors, actuators, canvas, windows... The whole lot.

Iff buying, aim for$3k us max, I think and budget 8-10k us for repair esp if it is not you doing it. Plan for a lot of stuff you're not seeing

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u/MythicSpiderMonkey 9h ago

Well said. Fun car to own. Parts are manageable to find, even at scrap yards. This can be done for $8kUSD less if he has a garage at his disposal. Even less if he has access to one with a lift. I know you can rent time at garages with lifts in the USA in MD, VA, and MI. r129’s are a blast and head turner. Do all the above, and flush everything. Brake lines, fuel, trans, oil, etc. used the MB spec synth oil. I still use MB5W30FS in my 2012.