What should become of the 2001 SLK 230 ?
Anyone who knows me, knows I am not a performance driver … at least no any more and not when there are four wheels involved. However, I picked up a used 2001 Merc 230 SLK back in 2003 and it is now an 8 year old. It is still in pretty good shape but will eventually need some TLC (Truck Load of Cash). So the question is –
- Do I drive it until it breaks down or falls apart (accepting the diminished capabilities as time progresses) ?
- Do I keep it up as best as possible ?
- Do I attempt to improve it – where I define “improve” is to tune it for comfort, agility, and fuel economy ?
- Do I sell it ?
What is your vote ?
I offer a fifth option…
Drain of all fluids, polish up beautifully, display in the new house as an objet d’art.
I know it won’t fit in the living room, but think of the sculptural possibilities of perhaps hanging it from the roof of the shop?
Options 2 and 3 may be viewed as opportunity costs. What would you rather do with the time and the money? If you would rather have the resources for wood working, flying, or travel than you have an answer to those two options. If you love spending money and time on cars – and that has not been my observation – than keep it. Cannot help you as much with 1 and 4, since both have pros and cons. But if you apply the same thought process, maybe you will find you answer. If it were me, I would place the add and see what comes of it. If I got what I wanted I would sell. I can always buy another. If I do not, then I was meant to keep it.
I’ve been mulling this one over, and I think you shouldn’t hold onto it unless it makes you happy. If you got rid of the car, you might be making room for something else in your life…
I like Mary’comment and I will start slippers
Mary is right.
And your original post did not make much mention of happiness associated with the car no matter what the status of its condition. I say post an ad and gauge your feelings when someone makes a offer.
If a good offer gives you a vision of you and the Z dog in front of a new fireplace (or anything else on your many lists) – that’s your answer. If you get a sinking “oh no” feeling, kick the guy to the curb and go with option 2 or 5. (1 and 3 just somehow give off a negative energy sucking vibe – IMHO).