I'm in a position to possibly get an 82 380SL for about $6000.  Automatic with 150K miles.

Looks to be pretty clean and in good condition for it's age.  Any thoughts on these cars?  I've done some research ont he various forums and it seems many consider these cars the poor man's SL.

Any know problem areas?  I've heard to change the timing chain to a double.  Whats the cost?  Something about cross member of body mounts collapsing???

In general, are they a good reliable car at this age?  Routine maint is fine but frequent repairs are an issue.  Don't need a daily driver but would like a dependable weekend car.

Thanks for any info, maybe I'll be joining the MB fold soon!

Tom

Is the 82 380 a 3 or 4spd auto?  is there a difference in final drive transmission and axle ratios? or are they both 1.00 & 3.27?

The trunk lock stopped working.  The battery died so does the trunk lock maybe require power to operate?

what are some of the common repair items on the early 80's SLs?  I curious about things that seem to go bad on a high percentage of the cars.  The know trouble areas?  Items that seem to go bad no matter how well the car was treated.