"WHY" classic Mercedes are worth saving- the bleak future of driving

[@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753]

Please check out my friend Dave Tobin's channel, Mercedes Market! kzbin.info/door/yABlrap-g2DK52rdgdQ-tQ

[@serz1885]

you are fucjking amazing

[@broderickhoward3696]

Have a 1983 280sl and love it 😀 ❤️

[@timleonard339]

I bought a 1970 W108 280S in ‘85. Been driving it every year since! Love it!

[@nobody5102]

I know this video is 3 years old, but I just brought home a 1976 450 SLC that I saved from the junkyard. I could not believe it was there. It was complete, and by complete, I mean every piece of trim, every vacuum line, every plastic lens unbroken, every emblem unmolested. I couldn't let it go to the parts rows or worse, the crusher. For a measly $2000 I saved a classic. I appreciate your passion for them. Thank you.

[@joelwandimi6962]

❤❤❤

[@reallyhappenings5597]

3:12 "Classic Mercedes are really the only car that delivers all of the features of a modern car without any of the excess in a package that is infinitely repairable and serviceable."

[@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753]

it's true.

[@golden.lights.twinkle2329]

Former 230e (W123) owner here. Virtually no parts for classic Mercedes (pre 1990) are available from Mercedes. Dealers won't work on them. Most independent mechanics won't touch an old Mercedes. You need to be your own mechanic and search out parts in Germany.

[@nickmayfield6951]

I just bought a W123 300 turbo diesel, it's a 1984. Been sat for a few years, lots of rust and definitely needs some love. I can't wait to start fixing her up and enjoy driving her.

[@alpaslanilkman3122]

You brought tears to my eyes,I can put my signature under all you have said.I am 59 years old and had nearly every car I ever wanted . Currently and probably till the end of my life I have a w124 1987 300 D.Thank you for the video.

[@thomasconnolly7452]

After many years of admiring the Mercedes on the road in the 70-80's I bought an 88 560SL last year and really fell for the feel of that car. I bought an 87 560 SEC this year and have become a total classic MB fan

[@MrRjnr]

Brilliant

[@chriswebber8324]

Pierre, you speak to our non-digital mechanical souls. In 1970, in Toronto, as a uni student, I could only afford a VW Beetle (1964) for Canadian $100. Three weeks later it blew up (seized pistons). I needed that car for my summer job. But, I knew nothing about auto mechanics. So, I went to the library and found John Muir's "How to Fix your Volkswagen: A Manual of Step by Step Procedures for the Compleat Idiot". I tore the engine down to the crankshaft and then rebuilt it step by step. I was the compleat idiot but, by the time I finished and I heard the hum of my newly recreated engine, I learned to love the intrinsic aesthetics of manual mechanics. That is why now, having made my way, I look to the Mercedes classics. You are an inspiration just as was John Muir with his brilliant book. I applaud you and I highly respect your insightful and intellectual approach to Mercedes mechanics, as of yore. Take care, Chris

[@tc3578]

I have a 2001 CLK 55 AMG (201,000km), a 2006 SLK280 (71,000km) and two months ago bought a near-mint condition 1984 230CE pillarless coupè (303,000kms). All magnificent to drive. All beautifully stylish. All turn heads. You're spot on with your comments. Look after your Mercedes-Benz and they'll look after you - and bring you decades of happiness! From Warrnambool, Victoria, Australia.

[@ftffighter]

Congrats :D These CLK's are built right, 183,1xx Miles on my 2005 CLK 55 AMG Coupe with zero check engine light still running like she's brand new :)

[@kevdupuis259]

Of course you're bat crazy but that's why we like you.

[@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753]

(:

[@bigzoon6282]

I´m late to the party. But about two months ago, before this Corona thing hit, I bought a W123 280CE. It was not in good shape. So while everybody got funky about toiletpaper, I started working on the car. Overhauling the front-axle, refurbishing the calipers, replacing break-lines and so on. I´m now working on the rear axle and let me tell you one thing, witnessing the beauty of the bolt holding the axle carrier in place alone was worth the price of admission. I have worked on all the cars I owned since I began driving, mostly Volvos and Saabs, and let me tell you, nothing comes close to the craftsmanship and attention to detail on that car. I think I really fell in love with when I saw that single bolt. Hope everyone on here has a good year and I´m relieved that I´m not alone in appreciating the beauty of these machines.

[@Cheungkinmen]

I am not a mechanic myself nor an engineer, but I love my mercedes, even though it's serviced by someone else. I love the style, the drive, the art!, these cars are works of art and I know art when I see it.

[@mosterdcheez]

I love my (non turbo) manual w124 1988 300D that I own for over 15 years now and enjoy in the summer. The quality is extreme, 35 years old and still in mint condition and drives sweet.

[@michaelorlando6159]

I agree and its sad when perfectly salvagable cars are destroyed just because of a bit of rust . I saved many nice eurpean cars and the mercedes as well. Keep up the cause

[@cdsandiego]

Well said. I fell in love with Benz when, at 7, my step-father moved into our house with his '63 220SE convertible. Sadly, and despite my pleas not to do it, my mother sold that car to a mechanic in 1989 for like $5K. It's probably out there somewhere, fully restored, and worth a small fortune. I still cringe a little bit every time I think about it. Then in '77 came our 123-a 300D-another car I wish my mother would not have sold; however, all was not lost. She traded it in on the '89 300SE which I inherited when she passed and which am slowly fully restoring. Nothing-and I mean nothing-drives like my 300SE. I have an '03 CLK 430, which I also love (far better looking than the W209), but it's not the same; nor do I expect it to be. They're completely different animals, but the build quality of the 300SE, particularly the interior-easily tops that of the CLK-and they're only 14 years apart. Mercedes felt the pinch right after the W140 when it really had to compete against the new guys on the luxury block: The Japanese. I understand it; they had to. Prior to the W140 Benzes were built without regard for cost, and they were sold only to the wealthiest people or those willing to sacrifice a lot of other things to drive a car that was nearly five times as much as an American car. It's unfortunate that globalization post about 1995 forced Daimler to build way, way more models-and to do so at a ferocious clip. So something had to give. Meanwhile, those of us who own pre-mid-90s Benzes own lovely, mostly mechanical, infinitely serviceable classics. And as Pierre says, armed with a reasonable budget for parts, a willingness to learn, and the chutzpah to fix some things yourself, these cars are a joy. I've put way more money into my 300SE than it's worth on the books, but like many here, I don't care. I'd much rather dump an average of say a grand a year into my 300SE than pay for a cheaply-built new car with $600/mo payments, ridiculous registration and insurance, and off-the-hook depreciation expense that immediately leaves you upside-down on the car's value. By comparison, my old Benzes are, financially speaking, a smoking deal even at twice their repair costs. Stay passionate, Pierre. We love what you do.

[@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753]

thank you Craig! I am glad to see that you understand what intrinsic value really is!

[@Nightbird.]

But you *BETTER* have plenty of money for the repairs or be married to a MB mechanic. My Euro 1985 500SEL is being repaired by a non-dealership certified MB mechanic..who charges way less than the MB dealership..and I still just got a $3k estimate to repair one head gasket that is slowly leaking oil. This car isn't even worth that at over 230k miles..but luckily my mechanic said I can still drive it but will have to keep an eye on the oil and top it off as needed until I can afford the repair. And no..there aren't any "repair in a bottle" solutions for head gaskets leaking oil. So..yes..these are marvelous cars..but unless you are wealthy..are a mechanic..or date/married to a mechanic..be prepared for bank breaking repair costs..which takes the joy out of owning these beauties and makes me want a reliable older Lexus LS.

[@cdsandiego]

Nightbird, I think one's perspective on this depends on how one chooses to drive a classic Benz. I have an '89 300SE with 191,000 on the clock,, and I drive it about 50 percent of the time-which makes it a quasi-daily driver. There are a number of variables that go into maintaining any old car, but the bottom line calculation we all have to make is strictly one of opportunity cost. My 300SE is getting close to needing a head gasket, and while I'm at it, I'll do the upper engine work, i.e., valve job, lifters, rockers, stem seals, injectors, etc.-whatever it needs. That'll likely run me $4,000. But I look at the opportunity cost, because I love the car and love driving it; it's like nothing else out there today. Compared to buying a new car-or even a lease return on a two year-old car, I can put $1-3K/year into repairs every year and still be *far* ahead of the numbers game vs. buying a new car: Payments, higher insurance, registration, and the big one: Depreciation expense put the monthly nut at well over a grand. So no, thanks. My 300SE can be fussy, but I can do a ton of repairs to her and still be better off financially than the guy buying a new car for about a $1K a month in total cost of ownership. And it's still not a classic old Benz that's like nothing else out there these days. And when I do more of the small things myself, guess what: I save even more. One of the best things about these old cars is that they're almost entirely mechanical. Fussy? At times, yes. But infinitely repairable.

[@Nightbird.]

@@cdsandiego Thanks for the story on your cars. It was really interesting..and shows the love you feel for your babies. I think the main problem here with me is that according to Pierre..my mechanic is overcharging me for the service my car needs. He quit the MB dealership about a year ago as he said they pay their mechanics horribly..and has his own shop now..so maybe that's why. If I had someone like Pierre to go to this probably wouldn't be an issue..but that's what happens when you choose to live in a rural area for the peace, quiet and beautiful nature. I have rarely driven this car in the past 18yrs since I moved to the Gulf Coast due to it not being my prime vehicle. But before moving here she had a complete overhaul due to the long 12hr drive to get here..which included a new rebuilt transmission..engine mounts..replaced all necessary belts, hoses, etc. So..since she's hardly been driven she's already had a lot of work done. But I also know not driving her often also creates issues as well. So for the new year..I'm going to try to get back into studly shape again..lol..and drive her daily to Planet Fitness..which is why she is getting the repairs..and it will be my chance to keep her going with daily drives. I'm emotionally attached to this car not only because she's beautiful..but because it was sold to me by my beloved uncle who passed away last year. I still remember driving it for the first time one cool late night..windows down..moonroof open..and Christina Aguilera's 'Genie in a Bottle' blasting on my radio. People were staring at me and admiring her..and I felt like the king of the world. Can't let her go..and it's a great way to honor my uncle who taught me to love cars. 😉

[@cdsandiego]

@@Nightbird. Love this story; thanks for sharing. I love my 126 for similar reasons: Mine was my mother's, and I loved it since the day she bought it. I was 27 at the time, and she had traded in her '77 300D for it. She also sold my step-father's 1963 220SE convertible--which killed me considering what that car is worth today--but that's a matter I let her take to her grave as I simply couldn't forgive her for that. In any event, I love driving my 300SE more than even my CLK 430. You must feel similarly about your 500SEL--which wasn't even sold in the States. As Pierre will likely attest, you can learn to do a lot of the smaller jobs yourself; these cars are almost entirely mechanical, and this makes them infinitely repairable. Source your parts through fcpeuro, autohausaz, or similar. If you have or can make the time to do some of the routine stuff yourself, you'll save big money. Subscribe to Pierre's site and you can hit him up with questions anytime; he's incredibly helpful and I love that he just calls 'em like he sees 'em. Also, join benzworld.org and search the forums/ask the guys questions. I find them very eager to help. Another idea: Ask your newly independent mechanic if he'll sell you some "block hours" at a discount. So, for example, if he's regularly $75/hour, maybe you can buy, say, ten hours of his time for $60/hour. Like a gift card, it's on the books ready to use--at a discount. Your only responsibility is to vet the number of hours he says a job will take. Again, Pierre or benzworld can help you get reasonable estimates for what a competent mechanic would need in terms of time. My independent mechanic charges me around $90/hour for labor--which is considerably less than the stealerships, and let's face it: The dealers want NOTHING to do with these cars anymore--and for a couple of the reasons: (1) The opportunity cost to repair them is too high; they can replace tons of modules on younger cars and pull in much more profit because those modules are priced at robber-baron margins, and they get away with it because they can. Also, the "rack rate" for replacement of those modules is essentially another license to print money. You can never beat an expert at their own game, so why try. (2) Their mechanics rarely know these old cars, and so they wind up sitting on the lot for weeks until they have nothing better to do and try to fix them. The dealerships are in my view the worst places to take any 20+ year-old Mercedes because, let's face it, they really don't want your business unless they can rape the hell out of you. Am I passing summary judgment on Benz dealerships? Yes I am because I've enough evidence to support my claim. My mother paid absolutely ridiculous fees to have stuff fixed on her car. I read the invoices and cried, but she was the little old lady driving the car over the yellow line, and all they saw were dollar signs. They're crooks. She wouldn't let me take the car and find an independent, so we just didn't talk about her car repairs. Or if we did, I just bit my tongue. To your point about driving it. YES! Do so. These machines don't do well when they sit for weeks at a time. Like middle-aged and older people, they run best when they're run regularly. You don't have to put a thousand miles on it, but driving it a hundred miles or so every few weeks isn't a bad idea at all. There are only two things about my 300SE that I wish were different: I wish it were the SEL; the longer wheelbase is just that much more elegant to me. And I would have preferred a different color. That said, you don't see too many Desert Taupe 126s out there, so with a new paint job hopefully this year, she'll look amazing. Her interior is nearly pristine, and I just had all the wood redone by a guy Pierre uses and who happens to be in San Diego where I live. It makes a BIG difference. Happy motoring. Show your SEL love and it'll show you love back.

[@paddydaddyo]

I decided that 2020 was the year I would finally bite the bullet and get my “forever car” ... a one-owner 1984 300TD. It’s not perfect, but it’s perfect for me, and I plan to repair, replace, and restore it over time to make it the best that I possibly can. 264k miles proves its durability and dependability. And that it is the exact year, model, color, interior, and options I always wanted-mein einhorn-told me I had to buy it. Thanks for your efforts and knowledge, I applaud your passion and your channel. Prost!

[@imnotarob0t1984]

that was well said. Car people are such a small majority of car owners. Most people have this preconceived notion that just because something is newer its's better. That's the problem with digitalism, it never stops when it's good. I've driven 100s of cars and the 300d is truly the best all-around driving experience.

[@andreimtriscas6626]

The first mercedes I drove was the 300D ,1985 as a teenager and finally now I found a 85 380se and looking forward to see it run and have it restored...absolutely love Mercedes classic. I bought it on a field and had to rescue it

[@rushhead7874]

After looking off and on for about 10 years , I found The Car I’ve wanted: a 1982 300SD. I have a total of $8500 into it including what I paid for it and non-maintenance repairs - almost all the work done at a Mercedes shop and now almost everything works on it and runs perfectly. Still way cheaper than buying a new car that will start falling apart after 5 years.

[@bokosdieselgarage]

Preach it, we live in such a consumable society and few people still know how to/want to fix things. These old Mercedes cars are one of the only that were really build to last. I have 7 of them now and keep buying more to fix/restore.

[@gregoryandersonmotorsports]

I glad to hear someone else say it! I have been screaming about the disposable garbage coming out for a while now. W123 fan. And i would love to have my w110 fintail back!

[@dorianmentor3921]

From South Africa and looked at a w123 200 with a 230 swap on the automatic gearbox. I could not believe how modern the car was,my dad has failed me regarding motor vehicles and he always desired a Mercedes but never bought one. I plan to get me a w123 and start with that as my uncle had a w123 250 with sunroof,w124 260E and a 350se with dual exhausts and I forgot the old 280se boat,not a merc expert but yeah at least had a proper taste of quality 👌

[@atatexan]

As I listened to your exhortation, the phrase “pearls before swine” came to mind. Agree 100% which is why I own 3 of them - 1975 W116 350SE, 1992 C124 300CE-24 Sportline with Getrag “dogleg”, and a 2002 R170 SLK320 6-speed (the SLK320 is a dubious member of the herd; plastic everywhere but a blast to drive) I flew out to Las Vegas to meet with an aviation client. Drove the 350SE to DFW. My friend/client picked me up in his new S550. I actually started laughing when I sat down. Purple accent lights? Garish M-B logos everywhere. Seat bolsters that puffed up in a turn. Drive assist that wrenched the car back from crossing a solid white lane line. Absurd compared to the elegant simplicity of the 43-year old S-Klasse. My father-in-law is a retired certified M-B tech and dealership shop foreman. He HATES what he calls “ space shuttle s*#t in the new cars and believes the W123 and 126 cars were the last Mercs when the engineers held sway. Back to the Vegas S550. My friend knowing I am a Mercedes guy asked with pride what I thought of his new car. I limited my comments to two things: that car will make you a stupid, disconnected driver and better hope the warranty is really long and comprehensive. Finally I told it would not be around when it is 40+ years old. Unmaintainable. Bravo, Pierre.

[@edjackson4389]

The very first Mercedes Benz I ever drove was my girlfriends car in 1987. 300TD wagon. I was 17 and at first not very excited to drive it, but very quickly fell in love! (with the car). Compared to American sedans of that era it was almost like a race car. Yes, you had to mat the pedal to the floor from a dead stop. but once it got rolling it pulled like a freight train! It was a joy to drive on curvy back roads too because the handling was very tight and glued to the road. Then 12 years later I bought a used 94 500SL I've been a MB fan ever since.

[@camgreer]

When all cars are designed in a wind tunnel, they all look the same. We like to drive something different and beautiful.

[@aquesadaa77]

Great comment! 👍🏼👍🏼

[@ronb1057]

@@aquesadaa77 Very well said. The cars of yesteryear are so much more stylish and elegant - a beautiful marriage of are, science and engineering. The sheer satisfaction of driving one of these cars compared to something manufactured in the past 20 years is very noticeable. I will take my R107 and my W123 any day over something current.

[@Licenciadopedro]

I have a 1968 Mercedes Benz W111 230S and it drives great, better and softer than modern cars plus the positive feedback from the people who wave me when I'm driving the car and I have to put petrol (in USA it would be fuel or gas) at night because if I do it at daytime, I can't leave the station after putting petrol due to the fact that lots of people come to take pictures or admire the car and ask me questions about my car or request for a ride of at least one block, and how can I refuse, the car is the star.

[@FreedomSOURCE]

Sold my Tesla Model 3 and bought 1980 300CD, saved it from becoming parts car. 300,000 Miles on it, but has excellent compression & a perfect transmission! These cars are built to last a lifetime, just as long as you are taking care of them (which costs a fraction of newer cars). Thank you for giving me the inspiration to get an old Benz!

[@Nixy2437]

Shukran Katia Pierre. You are absolutely correct in what you say. I have a fleet of W123's in Europe which are in daily use, I spend moderate amounts of money in maintenance and all are in pristine condition. My wife and I drove our 1981 300D on a 4000km trip a couple of weeks ago from Gibraltar to Monaco and back without so much as a hiccup. Keep up the good work and thank you for your efforts.

[@ronb1057]

Everything you said is so very true. Having being factory trained by Mercedes Benz and then worked on these cars for over four decades, I wholeheartedly agree with every single word of yours. I have owned a R107 (1976) for just over 12 years and a W123 (1984) since 1990 and they are still going strong with just periodic general maintenance and replacement of wear and tear components - belts, brakes, hoses, wiper blades, etc. along with the fluid and filter replacements at factory scheduled intervals. These older cars were built to last GENERATIONS; unlike the MB's that were built after say 1995 and especially in this century. The 210 was not too bad but the 211 and 212's were a nightmare to keep functioning well on a consistent basis.

[@walterstrahota2956]

Preach it Pierre! Fellow one percenter.

[@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753]

In this case, being in the "one percent" is possible for anyopne !

[@ejsulla]

I am 100% on board with you Pierre. Currently I have a 1987 190D 2.5 Turbo & 1993 300D 2.5 Turbo. Hoping to add a 300SDL someday.

[@rainbowwarrior2635]

I'm digging you man, and you are so right about a lot of this stuff,I have a classic 2006 E320CDI. You're right, that might be the last classic one, it has all the of the modern futures you want, computer controlled fuel injection, brakes, stability control, auto dimming mirrors etc, but not to much technology, no beeping at me when it gets close to other cars or anything. I love the stability management because it does give me the assistance when I'm pushing the car to enhance my ability to drive the car, but without intervening. The W211 CDI is the best mercedes sedan and diesel particularly because it has the ESP delete so I can turn it off and really drive the car if I need to kick the rear end out and rally or something. But with that said, it is amazing the lack of law here in california. I love smoking weed and I drive very fast, it's amazing how fast I can drive. I know how to drive fast, very cautiously, but yeah I got up 135mph and coming from tahoe I was cruising at like 95-110mph. The Mercedes CDI really are one of the fastest cars on the open road.

[@edmund415]

Been enjoying my 89’ 300e for 15 years now. I’m still amazed at the quality and thought that went into them. Hoping I’ll drive her till my wheels fall off.

[@bradowen9418]

right there with you with my '90 300E that I have had since 2005 - love her and will never part with her - doing my best to make sure the wheels never fall off...

[@caseyjones1999]

I was always an '80s BMW guy, but this guy is so passionate and good at what he does I had to subscribe.

[@philfreyre]

My first car was a 1973 VW Beetle, I now wish I still had it. Currently own a 1996 C220, and although it’s a little too “new” to be a true classic Mercedes, it still has the old mechanical 4 speed auto, and it drives beautifully. I am considering keeping it as long as it doesn’t rust out.

[@AhmedAlshehri1212]

I own two cars, W126, the 560 SEL 1990, which I use for long distances, and the other 300SE for daily use. What I notice when I walk around it is the admiration of others because of its wonderful condition, I can take it anywhere and park it among the most luxurious cars without embarrassment

[@gregsn2u]

Pierre! You nailed it!! I will never, ever, ever, I mean EVER give up my ‘68 280SE or my 93 S600. I’m fortunate enough to have an incredible and highly respected mechanic in Chicago. Never mind what the book value of my cars are-to me, they are priceless. You can put a price on common but you can’t put a price on unique.

[@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753]

that's right..you can't. it;s neat to see you have an early v12 140. what color is the w108?

[@allanriches9381]

Love your passion, and my W201 190e 2.3. With electric cars their lifespan is only as long as the battery pack will last.

[@ynsmsd8789]

The w123 and w124 Mercedes are the best products from the automotive industries of all times.

[@zelotuspintos]

Yns Msd try to drive a W126 for the big ones and the W201 for the litle ones. You’ll be astonisheed when you feel the drive of a well preserved R107. MB from the first 70’s till the late 80’s and some late 90’s are the best cars in the world

[@myredute]

Absolutely right. I have a 1994 W124 E280 with a 473,000 kay DOHC straight six. What a dream car to drive.

[@prabhavkaula9697]

Sir I adore old mercedes vehicles. Could you please guide me in learning about the models?

[@MrKinglyon2010]

I have 2-w124 and a w123. Love them to death

[@glennlink7]

I’m a past owner of a 300SD and a 240D. I missed them as well as a 911T and a BMW 1600-2, long gone. Last week I was fortunate to purchase a correctly maintained, documented, garage kept 420 SEL. Drove it home, 450 miles, felt like royalty. Original paint, a few minor issues like door locks and windshield washer inop but a solid car which I expect will outlast me. I rejoined MBCA. Could not be happier. Looked at it parked surrounded by modern SUVs, it looked like a car which belongs to an adult. Glad to subscribe.

[@squid667]

We who got to grow up in these cars and experience them up close during our formative years have been very lucky. The W123 was our ultimate family car. There was always at least one in the family for most of my upbringing. And every time we tried something different it just wasn't the same. It was a sad day when the last one left the family back in 2001. But now I have my own W123. And it staying. Together with old Volkswagens there is nothing better .

[@rainbowwarrior2635]

Old Volvos are extremely excellent cars.

[@joemcaleer3521]

Good morning from Aberdeen, Scotland. My first Mercedes 1971, W108 .fabulous. Just spoke with a old friend whom I haven't seen for 30yrs.and he mentioned my Mercedes, they just don't build them like they used to.

[@doca8792]

I enjoy his videos, real down to earth and organic. I’ve 3 classic Benzos that I’ll die with. Euro ‘85 380sl 30k miles, Euro ‘86 190e 2.3-16 36k miles, US spec ‘01 sl500 101k miles.

[@anthonyasaro7482]

You are a wonderful source of information for MB classic owners. I am not a mechanic but I am a true lover of classic mercedes ..... in my life time I have owned a 1959 190 gas, two 78's 280 C at one time, 82' 300 TD, 82' 240 D and currently a 83' 380 SL dual timing chain with 54,200 documented miles. I am a detailer that loves to keep up the condition of their car. I can tell you that the world of MB Classic lovers should be very happy that you live in this country and do not need to go to dealers for service. I am not against dealers but I am against waves of staff that you have to support and walk past to get to the person who is going to work on your car. Seeing you on you tube gives one the feeling that you have your heart in the right place when it comes to mb classics. I have talked to you about the 180 D from N Mex. and it would have been a blast to have had you go through it but we decided on the 83' 380SL ...... I call to come and visit you with our new 380 SL.

[@Valerie4747]

Thank you for your encouragement and knowledge! Your video was very motivating and makes me more excited than ever to continue restoring my 1986 560SL! It is so nice to hear somebody so passionate in these tough times… Thank you. Valerie.. Ocala, Florida.

[@jamesdonald7485]

I bought my first Mercedes-Benz in 1978 in NZ. I've had a 1963 220S, a 1963 220SE Coupe, a 1966 250S, a W123 250, and a 1976 450 SE among others - all in NZ and RHD. After about 15 years away from car ownership due to some ocean sailing on a classic wooden cutter, I now have a low mileage 2007 B200 turbo in Medellin, Colombia - LHD. A very different car from the others for sure, but suits my situation now that years are catching up a bit!! All wonderful cars.

[@nosutv2893]

Very True !:) just bought E430 with 25.000 miles haha

[@markmgrdichian6730]

Great vid. I'm with ya bro. NOTHING will ever replace my W201 Sportline. Best car, best value on the planet.

[@hitone4319]

I am with You on old ones, having owned a 1978 300D non turbo and sadly had to retire it after 506.000 km due to B-piston failure in transmission and moving. Now I still own a 79 450SL in georgeus red and also an 84 Bmw 318, the only Bmw e30 that's a truck,

[@ferenctulics9688]

Like Steven Barnett said, I own 3 as well: two 240D's and one 300TD, all W 123's. I love'em. Years ago, back in Europe, I restored two W123's. They're simply amazing little bijou's, like you said, compared to Swiss watches. Thank you for your devotament, your passion and your love for these cars. Take care, brother!

[@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753]

my pleasure! tell me more about your 240Ds...colors, years, etc

[@edshiflett3102]

The best video automotive video on KZbin. This needs to be taught in schools as an example of why excellence should be important to all of us.

[@wesleywormser8476]

Nothing puts a smile on my face quite like driving our w123's. I have even started fixing friends cars now as a result of they recognizing my passion for the cars.

[@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753]

good work! i am pleased to hear this.

[@dariuspringle2608]

So I just came to your channel yesterday, 8/03/2022, thinking I want to build the car to last the rest of my life, I’m 67 this year. Looking at the date of this video, you pretty much nailed what would be happing in 2022, 3 YEARS AGO! Bravo, I’m hooked.

[@rezabidell7725]

Man, I Appreciate and respect you fully from Shanghai 2020 . you are Very reasonable Engineer and i vote for you leading old classic Mercedes group where ever support is required. By the way this is A mechanical Engineer saying it. Like your hard passion and learning a lot from you. GREAT work.

[@RothBeyondTheGrave]

At a very young age, watching my friends dad love & work on his w126 vs the way he treated his daily driver taught me all I needed to know. When he would drive us around in it on a Saturday eve after he'd finished whatever was done that weekend, it was unlike any other experience I'd had even just being a child passenger. I currently drive my (sorry) c207 E class coupe wishing it was a w124 E class coupe. I turn my own wrenches doing what I can hoping to learn continuously so that one day I can get that w124 or any classic Mercedes for that matter. I couldn't agree more with the content of this video, & it does scare me. I like my macbook pro just fine, but I dream of the day when I can once again keep my computers & my cars mutually exclusive. Keep fighting the good fight.

[@neonlights97]

I couldn't agree with you more Pierre - you hit the nail right on the head with this video. He who laughs last, laughs the longest and those will be the ones who have preserved, saved and who continue driving these timeless classics.

[@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753]

thank you!

[@ruwanperis493]

Cheers to that!! I agree 100%. Our family owns many Mercedes here in the US and overseas including a 1956 300, 1970 300 SEL 6.3, and everything in between to newer models.I will only drive, own a Benz if I had to choose one car in the World, its my addiction, my passion. Even through we own other very rare cars, Mercedes Benz are the best in the World. this show is my favorite, thankyou very much, looking forward to every episode. The Best Or Nothing! I would not settled for Less! Pierre, great to know you, and learn from you my friend, Cheers to the 3 pionted Star!!! Yes ,please save or preserve every classic Mercedes World wide .Thankyou .yours Truly, Ruwan Maharaja Peris.

[@johanw.johnsen2405]

Love this channel. What passion, and such knowledge. Just fantastic.

[@louisjoseph1086]

Love your channel, Pierre! From a like-minded analog everything enthusiast, thank you for what you do to keep these classics alive! I just picked up an 86 W201 190D 2.5 with the 5-speed manual. Best car I've ever driven..., ever! Already makes me sad that everything you say is absolutely true. Cars have never been like this since. I had a 1992 VW Passat with a 5-speed manual. Perhaps that was the second most fun car I've driven. But, I can't think of a car I've driven built after 1992-1993 that had any kind of "personality". Can't really tell one car from another after 1992-1993. I specifically bought my W201 because I commute 120 miles to and from work each day. Sad to say, but the almost 40 year old diesel gets 44 miles per gallon. My 2015 Subaru Forester with a 6-speed gets 24 mpg. That's where 40-years of technology has gotten us..., 20 miles per gallon less and on gas?! Give me a break. And, my W201 again is the most fun car I've ever driven. I can't wait to get out and hear that old diesel putter to life, get behind the wheel, and go..., anywhere. Just driving it is such a joy. I was looking for a W123 diesel with the manual tranny when I found the W201. I love the W116s and W126s, but I prefer driving a manual transmission versus auto and they seem impossible to find in a manual. I guess I caught a bug, because I am still Jonesing for a W123 with a manual transmission. Thanks again for keeping it real, Pierre! Lou

[@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753]

We really appreciate you Louis Joseph for viewing our videos and leaving a comment. I tried to read as many as I can and take your responses for consideration on future videos. Thomas Polk KZbin Creator.

[@longbottle]

My daily driver is an '85 300TD. I've driven over 100,000 miles between my '85 and the '84 it replaced. I've driven a lot of cars in my time, but I have never felt more at home than I have behind the wheel of the W123s. The build quality is amazing, and the philosophy of making everything rebuildable (switches, even!) is just so different than the disposable attitude that modern vehicles have.

[@TheDog548]

Your passion is infectious! I have an 84 SL380 that my father gave me. It drives better than the two new Mercedes I have in the driveway. Love it!

[@edelindimitrov3922]

I was thinking I’m the only one that thinks the way you are I’m a w114 /115 fan and i have a coupe and a sedan i love them Great video

[@rajahrufus8735]

I have my 2000 model W210, E320 and I love it so much. I will begin to buy old mercedes Benz cars and save every year. Thank you.

[@lead-dog]

Perfect opening...”EVERY CLASSIC MERCEDES IS WORTH SAVING! Your mantra is contagious! Damn...your good Pierre! Thanks.

[@dariushodson4227]

I love old Benzs! I have an 89 560SEL and a 74 450SL. Love them both! Solid, reliable cars.

[@rainbowwarrior2635]

You're right other people feel the same way. recently a 1958 Mercedes 300SLR took the title as the worlds most expensive car. Up on that list was a lot of ferrari's, in particular Ferrari 250GTO, and the 250 GTO deserve to be there, they were way ahead of their time in performance, to be so light and have so much power and acceleration. really it wasn;t until 1989 with the NSX and integra Type R the modern cars offered that kind of acceleration, but it makes sense the mercedes should be the most expensive cars in history. If I was collecting very old classic cars, pre war mercedes would be at the top of the game, 300sl, SSK's, hitlers car, the silver arrows, these cars are just works of art engineering wise.

[@painted1276]

I wish I had seen this video 5 years ago. I was on the fence about getting an older Benz vs something more modern (90s 300d, 190e, 300e) but this video fully pushed me over the edge. My climax here is to get 124w or 123w

[@anthonyasaro7482]

Pierre I was hooked in 1964 with a 1959 190 ponton and as you know I got hooked on the 1955 180D located in New Mex. I will continue to search for a ponton closer to Florida and the reason is because you are located just two hours from my home.and I have a very strong love for these old gems. You are truly The Expert and anybody who has met you feels the same way.

[@V.Tashev]

I feel as you feel. Words cannot tell. I’m just like you are about the best cars ever built.

[@joepaterson7947]

Thank you Pierre, you just explained to me why owning a e300d w124 changed how I felt about cars forever, which it did. Well summarised, nicely put.

[@matthewessex9163]

Thank you for sharing Pierre. Couldn’t have said it any better. 100% support you and the cause from California!

[@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753]

thank you!!!

[@TheHorsebox2]

My own favourite, the w111 fantail. Magnificent.

[@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753]

we just finished a 1965 230S...I agree with you!

[@kowloonbl]

Yes, you are right! There IS nothing on the road better than my 1989 300E. (Well I think so anyway!) There is just something special about an older MB. I also have a '99 Volvo C70 Cabriolet. Nice car to drive, drop dead gorgeous red, but nothing like the quality of my 300E The Volvo is a blast to drive, the Merc? A pleasure to drive...My 1987 560SEC? You truly DO feel special and a cut above the rest. My 2000 SL500? You don't have to act cool, you don't have to dress cool...you quite simply ARE cool!

[@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753]

I am so glad you are taking such great care of your 124 and your 126!

[@CharlieLamdin]

I’ve only just found this video. You literally speak my thoughts exactly which is why I have begun the refurb of my 2-owner 1989 560 SEL which I bought 4 years ago with 71,000 miles on it for £2,300, drove around Europe for 25,000 miles and love more than any of the (countless) other cars I have owned in the last 30 years, including fast Audis and the like. The fact you mentioned the 560 SEL resulted in a spontaneous fist in the air, I’m so lucky to have found it. Glad to have found you, and keep it up!

[@bogier.8654]

Pierre, I appreciate the passion you exude for Mercedes! You, as well as Kent B. have impressed me enough to take the plunge into Mercedes ownership. I searched exhaustively to find a low mileage and well maintained W124. I landed on a '95 w/ M104 and only 85k + a mound of service records etc. While I do not agree with some of your negative opinions towards other tubers within the Mercedes Bent, I value your opinion regarding the marque. I encourage you to keep up the good fight... Reverend Hedary! ;) Enjoying my new2me Merc in the (253) Pac.N.wesT Go Hawks!

[@sergioandrade9893]

I completely agree! Excellent points. I own a 1990 300SE. I’ve been restoring it and will be complete next month. My 24 & 22 year old Sons also agree with what you have stated. They too own older vehicles. Thank you for your passion, wisdom, and knowledge.

[@mintychris1]

I have only been a Classic Mercedes owner for 9 months and I am already hooked.

[@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753]

hopefully we can get your djet system working right!

[@mintychris1]

@@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753 I am sure we will! I am enjoying learning about these fantastic cars.

[@joshuaculley9695]

My friend! I agree with you totally. I’ve only ever owned two 1974 450SL’s and test drove a 1976 450Sl. I am passionate about it so much I tinker just about everyday. It’s a rolling restoration. I wanna be as knowledgeable as you for the 74 450sl to help others. I still don’t know even half of anything about this car though but I’m learning everyday thanks to your knowledge and mercedessource and mikes merc and other cars and a couple others.

[@peterlamarroza3817]

I have a W124 300D 1986 ,It has a 200,000 km and it still running great and I have been the 3rd owner for over 30 years.

[@hamishmacintyre4600]

Just watched this video for the first time Pierre and I hear you loud an clear. I have a W116 450 and a W126 380 in Australia plus a 2020 V167 diesel and the old cars are my total joy to own and drive. I try keep them in good shape and well maintained and have driven many kilometres comfortably and safely and hope that I can continue to do so. Thank you for all your hints and advice it is greatly appreciated.

[@marciodomingues3653]

Hi. My dad had a w115 220E and a w123 240d. Those old mercs i will always love them.

[@vdobrovo]

I bought my first car a used Mercedes 230E and since then I'm so addicted to Mercedes' of that era. Now I own a 420 SEL and trying to maintain it as much as I can afford

[@stevenbarnett6614]

Happy New Year Pierre. The older the Mercedes, the better and more beautiful it is. I own 3 of them.

[@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753]

thank you Steve!

[@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753]

I wish you a happy, healthy 2019!

[@atos.nympha3451]

What do u have

[@alejandrovillanueva1412]

I just purchased a 1998 c230 and im absolutely in love i cant wait to get my hands on a 190 e next

[@paulbuckles5353]

I'm just going to humbly shuffle in and say that us Volvo 122 owners are marching in lockstep with all the sensibilities in the video. The principles of simplicity, durability and infinitely repairability are shared by us all.

[@danpenoff1253]

Let's keep saving these old Benzs', Pierre! Working on my 1965 220SEb to get it back to near perfect so I can drive it as often as possible.

[@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753]

can;t wait to see it!

[@GreenRanger886]

I treat my 05’ W203 Sport like a classic car and it’s been good with me. Cheap, comfy and good enough handling and its suspension is simple and it’s 1.8L engine is easy to work on. I’m looking to buy a W123 that’s close to my house so I can pamper it as well. Love mercs

[@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753]

good idea, let me know what happens

[@casperholm592]

You are absolutely right _ i am on my 5th mercedes 190E 2,3-16 - still did not figure out what other car that could replace it Thanks from an old cab driver

[@leeshaw5136]

You are the man. I am gonna buy another 300D or 300SD and go back between whatever I buy and my current 84 300D. I love my car. Nothing compares.

[@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753]

its always nice to know that there are people out there making an effort to repair, use and enjoy these cars!

[@edshiflett3102]

The MBs of the 70's and early 80's are the last really repairable cars. Here is my personal quote regarding cars and computers: "A computer should be in your car long enough to get it from Best Buy to your house." Keep on keeping on Pierre....

[@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753]

love it ! thank you Ed!

[@erfantavoosi100]

Dude, I totally agree with you about the part that people in the future will most likely long for "the cars from the good old times" because like you said the car manufacturers today have no plans whatsoever to bring back the simplicity in their models. The simple reason for this is that they don't see that they can benefit as much from real build quality cars as they can with cars composed of crappy and cheap parts.

[@zacharyjohnson3420]

so correct! I have my 126, 2 107s 2 129s and c140 and enjoy them more than any modern car. Recently i had sold my E400 coupe and bought another 560sl to replace it

[@mercedes-market]

You've got a whole Nostradamus thing going on with this one Pierre... from the beard to what you're actually talking about! And thanks for the plug for my channel... enjoyed shooting those videos with you.

[@1986Phoenix29]

we are definitely brothers from another mother.. I feel the exact same way... I've owned 14 classic Mercedes in my lifetime from 108, 111, 114/115, 116, 123, 124, and 201 lines...

[@mdough7766]

Pierre, I'm with you! Glad that I found you and appreciate not only your work but the education you provide.

[@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753]

thank you so much!

[@igoriakoven3665]

Well Done, Pierre! Bravo! I'm restoring W126 380 SEL in Australia and proud to get this beauty on the ROAD. You 're right - it is Good engineering. Keep Well ! Happy New Year !

[@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753]

thank you! glad to see someone still has a 380SEL!

[@fredbrown867]

He there Pierre ! I really appreciate your knowledge and insight ! I am totally in agreement with you … I’ve loved the MBZ brand for most of my adult life My parents had brand new 78 450Sl and 280se Later I bought my own 73 280 se 4.45 91 300ce and a 83 240d … Keep up the good work you’re awesome 👏

[@williamkerdasha5273]

Completely agree with this video! I’m currently driving a 1999 W202 C280 and although that would not be considered a classic by most, it just feels like such a solid car to me. It was passed down to me by my parents back in 2015 as a first car and I fell in love with it. Since then I have done just about all the maintenance myself and I’m always surprised at how simple everything is on the W202. People always remark on how the car looks timeless along with how it rides better than many modern cars. I’ve driven newer Mercedes, but they don’t do anything for me. It’s not always about how many fancy gadgets your car has. Definitely plan on keeping this one and can’t wait to get another Mercedes hopefully from the 70s or 80s.

[@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753]

I think the m104 engine will certainly be around forever. Hopefully the control modules for the injection system, abs/isp and climate control are repairable.

[@mikhailkunneke]

I'm am avid fan of the W202. I own a 1998 Mercedes-Benz C200 Elegance. I honestly believe that it still has 80s build quality. Personally, the M111 is the best 4 cylinder ever built. They cannot die.

[@friendlypiranha774]

Pierre, when you're driving your Classic Mercedes-Benz in Electric Car City in the 2030's and you see another Classic Mercedes-Benz flashing lights at you and waving, wave back - it'll be me.

[@chuckfinley3542]

I wholeheartedly concur with what you said in this video. Amazing engineering and handling. I currently own a ‘72 250C (sweet body style) and last Saturday I drove it for six hours that day with nary a hiccup. Not bad for a 47-year-old car. The car still needs sorting and there’s a difficulty with finding a classic Mercedes specialist in my area, but I intend to hang on to the car as long as possible. That God for the Classic Center in Irvine and enthusiastic/specialists like yourself.

[@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753]

well, this is still a car for the do it youselfer. the best manual for this is the 114/115 body and chassis manual and the 108 109 111 113 manual for 1968 production, which covers the carbs. the 1971 intro to service is also very useful.

[@chuckfinley3542]

Mercedes Classic with Pierre Hedary thanks for your reply. I used to work on my beast years ago, but no more-Sr. Management says no, and so does our HOA. When I lived in another state my local repair shop welcomed my talking them through a procedure that they weren’t familiar with. Not here with the majority of what they work on being Ferrari’s, E-types, and the ever precious Porsche’s. :) You’re right, the aforementioned chassis manual is excellent. I don’t have the 108, etc. manual, nor the last one. Do you know a source for those, other than eBay? Thanks much.

[@mercedesclassicswithpierre1753]

ebay usually. and where do you live again, Chuck?

[@richardginger-p4s]

I recently purchased a 1987 560 SEL from a salvage yard for 1300.00. It cost me an additional 150.00 to have it towed home. I am preparing to put it on jack stands in my garage and begin making the necessary repairs to make it roadworthy. It has less than 150,000 actual miles and is relatively rust free with a nice leather interior. It also has 140 plus lbs. of compression per cylinder and a new timing chain and tensioner installed in the last 5,000 miles. It appears to be a fairly straight forward project which I hope to be driving it by summer.