[W126 Coupe] 380 / 500 differences

[Andrew Sporner]

Hi

I just got the news that my 500 will cost too much to repair, so now I am
going to look for a replacement. (nearly EUR 17K for chassis/body work--
OK thats a mercedes shop and would be expensive! but even a private
shop would charge even a third to half and still its too much).

Ultimate goal is to bring it home with me in a few years.  From this I have
considered a 380 SEC which was sold from the very beginning in the USA
and thus would be no problem to insure.

I notice a huge difference in displacement, but a very small difference in
horsepower.  Somebody told me that consume nearly the same amount of
gas.  Are there any other big differences (besides the obvious).  I know that
one can get about 500,000 KM on a 500 but I don't know if the 380 motor is
as well built.

Suggestions/ideas???


Andy