In this four-part mini series on classic car reliability, we are looking at the wider definition of reliability in the context of a classic… And what it means for you as an owner.
Blog Post #4 – Inspirational Reliability
Is your classic so reliable that it inspires you to use, or does a trip take days of preparation?
Sometimes when browsing classified ads online, you might come across a seller stating ‘I’d happily drive this to Scotland and back’, or words to that effect. What they mean is that their confidence in the reliability of their car is such that they’d happily take on a long distance trip at the drop of a hat.
Now, think about your classic car. Would you?
With minimal preparation, nothing more than a check of the tyres, the fluids and the brakes, would you tackle a long distance trip in your classic Mercedes-Benz?
Would you attack the ‘Esses’ tomorrow morning? Which one? Southport? Southampton? Scotland? Saint Tropez? Switzerland?
How much preparation would your car need to embark on a trip of any significance, and would it require a boot (or trailer, or support truck) full of spares?
One of the endearing things about owning a classic Mercedes-Benz compared to some other classics is that it really was designed for grand touring. A well-maintained car should be perfectly capable of tackling arduous distances without hesitation.
Our 560SL enjoyed a trip to the Artic Circle. Our Pagoda drove to Scotland and back.
Our 560 tackles the Artic Circle, north of Norway 
Our 280SL Pagoda on the ferry in Scotland
Your car should give you a level of inspirational reliability, and by that we mean you should be inspired to use your car. What is the point in owning a classic car we are afraid to drive for fear of what might happen?
Take that trip to Europe! Use it for that March weekend away, even though it might rain and the E Class looks so tempting.
We believe a classic car should be the key that unlocks a door to new adventures, to driving and touring experiences that become fond memories and photo albums to be shared with friends.
Ask yourself, is my car capable of this? If it isn’t, what needs to be done to make my car more dependable?
If it’s a service and maintenance issue then that’s easy to resolve. Are there simple things that you could do with your car to make touring more enjoyable, such as fitting a central arm rest, some rear seats, or a better stereo?
Reliability is more than just the mechanics of an engine, it’s an overall feeling for how you appreciate and respect your car. We rarely give our modern ‘daily drivers’ the attention that our classics get, but in many ways we expect so much more from our classic cars.
Don’t let your classic car become a disappointment or a barrier to new experiences, instead take the path necessary to allow your car to be everything that the magazines tell you it can be!
At SLSHOP we are always keen to hear about your stories and the trips you take in your classic cars.
Is it time you booked your car in at SLSHOP to release some of that wonderful potential?
Thanks for reading.
Previous Posts
More from ClubHouse
CARE membership plans
Join Our Family
Improve your SL
Increase the value it brings you
For every SL owner we have met, the key aspect in ownership and running these amazing motorcars is ensuring that this prized possession remains a joy to use whenever, wherever and however; protecting and increasing its value over time.
As the World’s largest specialist in classic SL’s we have drawn upon our experience with our customers, with hundreds of cars and thousands of hours behind the wheel and under the ramp to develop CARE; a way of engaging a community of owners and protecting the value of their investments as well as enhancing their cars condition, reliability and desirability.
Be the First to Know
We don’t mind whether you are in the market for one of our awesome cars or just interested in seeing whats new and whats going on in the market. Pop your details in here to receive updates on all thats “hot” in the showroom.