W123 280TE - what to look for?

As far as I know, the only timing chain problems was with the single ones that some 280's (possibly only in the States) had. EU 280s had Duplex chains so it wasn't an issue. Not heard of the four-pots needing timing chains every 60k before.

Nothing really specific to look for engine-wise, they're pretty bullet-proof. They get a bit tappety but it doesn't seem to trouble them much.

*EDIT* Ah, just noticed you're in Aus... not sure what spec 280 you got over there, regarding the timing chain.

thats the first ive heard of chains on the 4 bangers too.
mines done twice that on its original one, saying that its rattling a little on start up.
if the self levelling is bust don't be afraid, its not the black art that many like to make out.
a semi competent person with a small number of tools could repair it.
i repaired mine, so any idiot could do it. ;D

HELP ME!!

I've had a look at two, and I don't know which one to go for!

1st one is a light metallic blue 1982 and is immaculate - been looked after irrespective of cost, even the rubber seal at the petrol cap has been replaced because it split! Not perfect though, couple of interior trim splits/tears, and the rear sus sits too high, the steering is very sloppy, and its done 260k miles. No apparent major engine or box work. Paint etc is excellent, new exterior trim, rechromed bumpers.


2nd one is a 1981. paint is original, got minor rust it the inside door bottoms, and a couple of body bubbles. Sunroof sits low at one corner, interior is a bit grubby but would clean up okay, a/c is knackered, got chrome arches (but no rust) and SEC alloys. It has been looked after and there are receipts to prove it, just not regardless of cost - guess it needs TLC. Drives fine, autobox is okay as is steering, and the head was rebuilt less than 3 years ago and only done about 25k since. All up it has 218k on the clock.


First one is the better car, but I can't help feeling it would be one that just needed washed, polished and serviced, whereas the 2nd one is ripe for some minor mods without me feeling like I've buggered a potentially concours car.

On top of that, I'd feel obliged to fix the 1st one properly if it went wrong, whereas a rear sus failure on the 2nd one would see a set of airbags chucked on all round.

Bloke who owns the first one doesn't really want to sell it, whereas the 2nd guy has been told it has to go because it is sitting on his front lawn!

In terms of asking price theres only about £500 between them, but I reckon the second one would swallow that up fairly quickly.

I want them both, but the investment committee has said no, so now I don't know what to do!

Anyone got any guidance?

Go for the one without the chrome arches Less hidden.

even when your modifying stuff its always best to start with best car you can find, i'd rather spend 500 quid on wheels or whatever than buying body panels and fixing stuff.