LWB250 bid $3,857
LWB250 bid $2,500
LWB250 bid $5,000
LWB250 bid $9,100
LWB250 said:
I'm with KingKitty - love the color and W210s. These things are pretty bulletproof and low maintenance. Let's come out swinging!
Wow! @Boothill must want this bad. I'll sit back and wait, then. Good luck, but keep an eye over your shoulder...
@UI_ClassicsParts are still available to this day, you just have to know where to find them. That hasn't changed, but for most "production" shops they don't want to be bothered with having to source things from different vendors, so if NAPA doesn't carry it you can't get it. Again, it's a compromise. The Webers or any other conversion carburetor will never work 100% correctly like the Zeniths.
@UI_ClassicsI can't say, as I don't know their specifications. However, I can say that I've serviced numerous cars with the Zeniths and a few with conversion carbs (there were several vendors who made conversion kits) and the Zeniths, when set up properly, always resulted in better performance and smoother driving. The "conversion" kits often had issues with flat spots in the acceleration curve, as you may be experiencing, which can't be adjusted out. You have to adjust them for a narrow band of performance and as a result you lose something in the process, low end response, high end response, transition between idle and load, etc., etc. They're a compromise, I guess is what I'm saying. The Zeniths can be finicky, but again, if you read and follow the service documentation on them and adjust them in the sequence given, they work perfectly. When they act up it's often because people just start making adjustments without following the procedures.
@UI_Classics It's because few people had the patience to follow the proper procedures for setup and adjustments on the Zeniths. Instead, they would yank them off and drop Webers on. You have to follow the procedures in a very methodical (German!) way, if you just go in and tinker with the adjustments they'll never work properly. They weren't Quadrajets or Holleys - they had to be adjusted in a systematic way. That and in some instances the top covers of the Zeniths would get warped because some ham-handed owner or mechanic would do their Arnold Schwarzenegger imitation when tightening the hold down screws, which only had to be finger tight.
Any chance of getting some pictures of the bottoms of the doors and the front end of the rockers in the rear of the front wheel wells? Thank you!
Too bad it doesn't have the original Zenith carbs. They were often maligned by poorly informed or untrained mechanics who didn't understand how to set them up properly.
A picture of the area under the rear seat bottom cushion would be helpful as well. It's easily removed and will reveal a great deal about how the car was cared for in the past. Not only that, you'll often find a nice snack of old Cheetos or candies along with some spare change. First place I look on a car to determine how well it was cared for...
"A little work" is a bit of an understatement. There are obvious issues here, but beyond those you'll have a lengthy laundry list of items to deal with, such as rubber seals and chassis bits. Fortunately, these are mostly all available from Mercedes-Benz, believe it or not, but they're not cheap. Rust is your worst enemy here, and while there's perforation on the floor, the bigger concerns are the spots on the body panels, as they will often hide more behind them. Dinged bumpers are quite common on these due to their age, but the bumpers can be straightened and rechromed. Can we get some pictures of the undercarriage and door bottoms? If there is rust in the door bottoms it's game over. Things like rear swing arm bushings and differential piñon seals are not pleasant to replace, but make a difference in how the car runs and handles (especially the suspension and differential bushings).
@BrosiphTitoThank you!
Any idea why the speedometer and odometer don't work? Bad cable? And where is the rust located that shows in picture 94 on the floor? It's tough to identify the location from the photo. Also, are there any pictures of inside of the trunk? Ideally with the rubber mat removed? Thanks!
@JeffsMessI just checked, and Becker does in fact repair, rebuild and offers Bluetooth and auxiliary options for the W163 COMAND units.
@Pns&NdlsThe COMAND system in these cars was not made by Becker, it was either Harmon-Kardon or Alpine, depending on the model. There is an auxiliary input on this most likely, although it might not be set up, again this is model dependent. There are some good Bluetooth cassette adapters out there that work amazingly well with units like this.
@avemariaHence my reasoning for pointing it's use out for a second time. I found it offensive as well, and completely inappropriate. The first time I was dismissed. That says something for the editorial staff of the web site, for sure.
And I see we're recycling the mildly offensive reference to "WASPs" in the ad copy.
@avemariaThis car is affected by the balance shaft failure issue. At least it's within the range of serial numbers of affected engines. The cutoff for affected engines is at serial number 468993, and this car's engine serial number ends in 461788. So that would put it in the affected range. I would definitely want the engine inspected by a mechanic familiar with this issue and a review of the timing specs. The low mileage is likely the reason why the issue hasn't appeared, but given the likelihood of (known) failure, it's a time bomb waiting to blow for the next owner. Too bad - it's a beautiful car, but with the potential for major repairs in the future, I wouldn't roll the dice on it.
Beautiful example of a 400E. I've owned two of these, and while I know a 500E is far better due to numerous improvements, you can't find a better "smiles per mile" value in a W124 than a 400E. When everything is up to snuff these cars drive like they're on rails to speeds that will push you back in the seat. GLWA!
Nice example of the W211 diesel. Refreshing to see a cylinder head that isn't plagued by the "Black Death" that's so common on these. Potential buyers will want to be sure the EGR checks out as well as the dreaded intake manifold flaps and actuator. Hopefully, on a car with this few miles these aren't issues. GLWA!
“WASP-ified set”? Not sure this is an appropriate comment. Maybe this wagon will command more here than it did in the recent eBay auction?
@03mbw209- Got your message and responded. Thank you!
I know the area well. I used to live in SE WI.
A crazy car from MadTown! I love it!
@masinos65Thanks for the update. Wasn't sure if anything was happening in this regard.
Messaged the seller for undercarriage photos. Absolutely necessary for a car that was driven north of the Mason-Dixon Line.
Any potential buyer better check the VMI or records to see if the balance shaft issues that plagued the M272 have been addressed. If not, they need to set some serious coin aside to anticipate the repairs, as they will be needed. This car is affected as the engine serial number is below the cutoff for the improved changes to the engines.
Let's see some undercarriage pictures, please. This car was in Massachusetts for 20 years. Definitely interested once I can see underneath.
@justfalcon - My mistake on the title issue - I have a car with a rebuilt title that was issued 70k miles ago and without seeing the documentation there is no way someone would know it. Interesting choice of venues for the photos. I know exactly where that is... GLWA!
Mileage is "accurate and true" yet it's got a non-stock final drive ratio? I'm confused. A salvage title and numerous alterations makes this car a bit of a Frankenstein, no doubt appropriate for the season. Lots and lots of sunk costs here that are highly unlikely to be recovered in a sale. If the reserve is relatively low, someone will get a good deal. If the seller has unrealistic expectations based on the costs of the upgrades and modifications this will likely go RNM. Interesting car, should be an interesting auction. Get out the popcorn! GLWA!
Nice car, sad that there is such a laundry list of items that require attention. This is a good example of "upkeep" where an owner does the basic oil/fluid changes but ignores the other systems in the car. As a former owner of a number of W140s, none of these are dealbreakers, but if you're not a DIY'er you'll be dropping some significant coin to resolve them. Soft close system is not easy to repair depending on the issue and will require additional troubleshooting to resolve. The orthopedic seats can't be fixed - if the bladders are leaking you're done with that part of the system. The rear window shade requires removal of the back seat and parcel shelf to access and possibly repair, depending on what part(s) have failed. The center console and drink holder are an easy fix. This all points to a lack of attention to detail when it comes to care and maintenance. These are some of the bits that make these cars stand out from their counterparts of the time. While they don't affect the drivability, their inability to function takes away from the driving experience and ultimately the ownership enjoyment of the car. Granted, some things can't be addressed due to lack of parts availability, but other things can. Were they fully functional this car would be a standout in the market. Instead, they're a detriment. Sorry for the unvarnished nature of the comments, but it makes me sad to see a wonderful car that was a competitor to such names as Rolls Royce and Bentley in such condition. Take all the amenities away that made it unique, like the door soft close or the rear window shade and it's no better than a tarted-up C or E Class with a V12. GLWA!
I see this has the orthopaedic seat option on the front seats. Is this still functional? Parts for these (the inflatable bladders, specifically) are no longer available.
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2000 Mercedes-Benz E430 w/64k Miles
LWB250 said:
I'm with KingKitty - love the color and W210s. These things are pretty bulletproof and low maintenance. Let's come out swinging!1967 Mercedes-Benz 250S
LWB250 said:
Wow! @Boothill must want this bad. I'll sit back and wait, then. Good luck, but keep an eye over your shoulder...1967 Mercedes-Benz 250S
LWB250 said:
@UI_ClassicsParts are still available to this day, you just have to know where to find them. That hasn't changed, but for most "production" shops they don't want to be bothered with having to source things from different vendors, so if NAPA doesn't carry it you can't get it. Again, it's a compromise. The Webers or any other conversion carburetor will never work 100% correctly like the Zeniths.1967 Mercedes-Benz 250S
LWB250 said:
@UI_ClassicsI can't say, as I don't know their specifications. However, I can say that I've serviced numerous cars with the Zeniths and a few with conversion carbs (there were several vendors who made conversion kits) and the Zeniths, when set up properly, always resulted in better performance and smoother driving. The "conversion" kits often had issues with flat spots in the acceleration curve, as you may be experiencing, which can't be adjusted out. You have to adjust them for a narrow band of performance and as a result you lose something in the process, low end response, high end response, transition between idle and load, etc., etc. They're a compromise, I guess is what I'm saying. The Zeniths can be finicky, but again, if you read and follow the service documentation on them and adjust them in the sequence given, they work perfectly. When they act up it's often because people just start making adjustments without following the procedures.1967 Mercedes-Benz 250S
LWB250 said:
@UI_Classics It's because few people had the patience to follow the proper procedures for setup and adjustments on the Zeniths. Instead, they would yank them off and drop Webers on. You have to follow the procedures in a very methodical (German!) way, if you just go in and tinker with the adjustments they'll never work properly. They weren't Quadrajets or Holleys - they had to be adjusted in a systematic way. That and in some instances the top covers of the Zeniths would get warped because some ham-handed owner or mechanic would do their Arnold Schwarzenegger imitation when tightening the hold down screws, which only had to be finger tight.1967 Mercedes-Benz 250S
LWB250 said:
Any chance of getting some pictures of the bottoms of the doors and the front end of the rockers in the rear of the front wheel wells? Thank you!1967 Mercedes-Benz 250S
LWB250 said:
Too bad it doesn't have the original Zenith carbs. They were often maligned by poorly informed or untrained mechanics who didn't understand how to set them up properly.1966 Mercedes-Benz 200 "Fintail" 4-Speed
LWB250 said:
A picture of the area under the rear seat bottom cushion would be helpful as well. It's easily removed and will reveal a great deal about how the car was cared for in the past. Not only that, you'll often find a nice snack of old Cheetos or candies along with some spare change. First place I look on a car to determine how well it was cared for...1966 Mercedes-Benz 200 "Fintail" 4-Speed
LWB250 said:
"A little work" is a bit of an understatement. There are obvious issues here, but beyond those you'll have a lengthy laundry list of items to deal with, such as rubber seals and chassis bits. Fortunately, these are mostly all available from Mercedes-Benz, believe it or not, but they're not cheap. Rust is your worst enemy here, and while there's perforation on the floor, the bigger concerns are the spots on the body panels, as they will often hide more behind them. Dinged bumpers are quite common on these due to their age, but the bumpers can be straightened and rechromed. Can we get some pictures of the undercarriage and door bottoms? If there is rust in the door bottoms it's game over. Things like rear swing arm bushings and differential piñon seals are not pleasant to replace, but make a difference in how the car runs and handles (especially the suspension and differential bushings).1966 Mercedes-Benz 200 "Fintail" 4-Speed
LWB250 said:
@BrosiphTitoThank you!1966 Mercedes-Benz 200 "Fintail" 4-Speed
LWB250 said:
Any idea why the speedometer and odometer don't work? Bad cable? And where is the rust located that shows in picture 94 on the floor? It's tough to identify the location from the photo. Also, are there any pictures of inside of the trunk? Ideally with the rubber mat removed? Thanks!2007 Mercedes-Benz E350 4MATIC Wagon w/72k Miles
LWB250 said:
@JeffsMessI just checked, and Becker does in fact repair, rebuild and offers Bluetooth and auxiliary options for the W163 COMAND units.2007 Mercedes-Benz E350 4MATIC Wagon w/72k Miles
LWB250 said:
@Pns&NdlsThe COMAND system in these cars was not made by Becker, it was either Harmon-Kardon or Alpine, depending on the model. There is an auxiliary input on this most likely, although it might not be set up, again this is model dependent. There are some good Bluetooth cassette adapters out there that work amazingly well with units like this.2007 Mercedes-Benz E350 4MATIC Wagon w/72k Miles
LWB250 said:
@avemariaHence my reasoning for pointing it's use out for a second time. I found it offensive as well, and completely inappropriate. The first time I was dismissed. That says something for the editorial staff of the web site, for sure.2007 Mercedes-Benz E350 4MATIC Wagon w/72k Miles
LWB250 said:
And I see we're recycling the mildly offensive reference to "WASPs" in the ad copy.2007 Mercedes-Benz E350 4MATIC Wagon w/72k Miles
LWB250 said:
@avemariaThis car is affected by the balance shaft failure issue. At least it's within the range of serial numbers of affected engines. The cutoff for affected engines is at serial number 468993, and this car's engine serial number ends in 461788. So that would put it in the affected range. I would definitely want the engine inspected by a mechanic familiar with this issue and a review of the timing specs. The low mileage is likely the reason why the issue hasn't appeared, but given the likelihood of (known) failure, it's a time bomb waiting to blow for the next owner. Too bad - it's a beautiful car, but with the potential for major repairs in the future, I wouldn't roll the dice on it.1993 Mercedes-Benz 400E w/80k Miles
LWB250 said:
Beautiful example of a 400E. I've owned two of these, and while I know a 500E is far better due to numerous improvements, you can't find a better "smiles per mile" value in a W124 than a 400E. When everything is up to snuff these cars drive like they're on rails to speeds that will push you back in the seat. GLWA!19k-Mile 2005 Mercedes-Benz E320 CDI
LWB250 said:
Nice example of the W211 diesel. Refreshing to see a cylinder head that isn't plagued by the "Black Death" that's so common on these. Potential buyers will want to be sure the EGR checks out as well as the dreaded intake manifold flaps and actuator. Hopefully, on a car with this few miles these aren't issues. GLWA!2008 Mercedes-Benz E350 4Matic Wagon
LWB250 said:
“WASP-ified set”? Not sure this is an appropriate comment. Maybe this wagon will command more here than it did in the recent eBay auction?2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK500 w/74k Miles
LWB250 said:
@03mbw209- Got your message and responded. Thank you!2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK500 w/74k Miles
LWB250 said:
I know the area well. I used to live in SE WI.2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK500 w/74k Miles
LWB250 said:
A crazy car from MadTown! I love it!2001 Mercedes-Benz E430 4MATIC w/57k Miles
LWB250 said:
@masinos65Thanks for the update. Wasn't sure if anything was happening in this regard.2001 Mercedes-Benz E430 4MATIC w/57k Miles
LWB250 said:
Messaged the seller for undercarriage photos. Absolutely necessary for a car that was driven north of the Mason-Dixon Line.2007 Mercedes-Benz E350 Sak’s Fifth Avenue KEY TO THE CURE
LWB250 said:
Any potential buyer better check the VMI or records to see if the balance shaft issues that plagued the M272 have been addressed. If not, they need to set some serious coin aside to anticipate the repairs, as they will be needed. This car is affected as the engine serial number is below the cutoff for the improved changes to the engines.2001 Mercedes-Benz E430 4MATIC w/57k Miles
LWB250 said:
Let's see some undercarriage pictures, please. This car was in Massachusetts for 20 years. Definitely interested once I can see underneath.1995 Mercedes-Benz E320 Wagon w/Quaife LSD
LWB250 said:
@justfalcon - My mistake on the title issue - I have a car with a rebuilt title that was issued 70k miles ago and without seeing the documentation there is no way someone would know it. Interesting choice of venues for the photos. I know exactly where that is... GLWA!1995 Mercedes-Benz E320 Wagon w/Quaife LSD
LWB250 said:
Mileage is "accurate and true" yet it's got a non-stock final drive ratio? I'm confused. A salvage title and numerous alterations makes this car a bit of a Frankenstein, no doubt appropriate for the season. Lots and lots of sunk costs here that are highly unlikely to be recovered in a sale. If the reserve is relatively low, someone will get a good deal. If the seller has unrealistic expectations based on the costs of the upgrades and modifications this will likely go RNM. Interesting car, should be an interesting auction. Get out the popcorn! GLWA!One-Family Owned 1999 Mercedes-Benz S600
LWB250 said:
Nice car, sad that there is such a laundry list of items that require attention. This is a good example of "upkeep" where an owner does the basic oil/fluid changes but ignores the other systems in the car. As a former owner of a number of W140s, none of these are dealbreakers, but if you're not a DIY'er you'll be dropping some significant coin to resolve them. Soft close system is not easy to repair depending on the issue and will require additional troubleshooting to resolve. The orthopedic seats can't be fixed - if the bladders are leaking you're done with that part of the system. The rear window shade requires removal of the back seat and parcel shelf to access and possibly repair, depending on what part(s) have failed. The center console and drink holder are an easy fix. This all points to a lack of attention to detail when it comes to care and maintenance. These are some of the bits that make these cars stand out from their counterparts of the time. While they don't affect the drivability, their inability to function takes away from the driving experience and ultimately the ownership enjoyment of the car. Granted, some things can't be addressed due to lack of parts availability, but other things can. Were they fully functional this car would be a standout in the market. Instead, they're a detriment. Sorry for the unvarnished nature of the comments, but it makes me sad to see a wonderful car that was a competitor to such names as Rolls Royce and Bentley in such condition. Take all the amenities away that made it unique, like the door soft close or the rear window shade and it's no better than a tarted-up C or E Class with a V12. GLWA!One-Family Owned 1999 Mercedes-Benz S600
LWB250 said:
I see this has the orthopaedic seat option on the front seats. Is this still functional? Parts for these (the inflatable bladders, specifically) are no longer available.