Anybody own a 380SL or 560SL?

One place to start: http://www.oursl.com/

Of the two you mention, I've driven the 560SL and was impressed with how well built it is. Based on a friend's experience, I would have the automatic gearbox checked out by a Merc tech -- the replacement cost of hers was the better part of $10K, and this was probably 8-10 years ago.

Good luck, I love those SLs -- great luxury cruisers, though not really sports cars.

 

450SL not on your list?

 

The consensus on the R107 forums is: Never buy a 380. Least reliable and weakest engine. I researched these cars a lot. Get the 560, failing that, a 450.

Here's a couple of links for you:

http://northernresource.com/mercedes/107.htm
http://mbca.cartama.net/forumdisplay.php?f=70
http://northernresource.com/mercedes/107-buyer-guide.htm

Research these cars carefully before you buy!