Diesel Longroof: ’83 Mercedes-Benz 300TD
The first Mercedes of the very popular W123 model appeared in September, 1979. This was the 300 TD, available with automatic transmission only. In most markets, the 5-cylinder 3-litre diesel engine was offered only in the T body style, while in North America it was also available in sedan and coupé bodies. These W123 cars are a testament to Mercedes’ legendary build quality. Although not entirely indestructible, they hold up amazingly well. Granted, some of the support systems, apart from the Diesel engine, are more than likely to fail before the engine needs a rebuild and that can get expensive.But there are specialists out there to help you keep a good W123 on the road forever. An increase in driving pleasure came in the 80s with the introduction of the Turbocharged version like today’s example. It is almost impossible to find a low mileage 300TD so one has to be a little suspicious about this 42,000 example. It certainly looks like it could be if you focus on the interior. The switches and pedals look to have minimal wear and although M-B interiors are durable they will begin to acquire signs of age like any car. This one looks fresh. The seller knows the history of the car from the Owner’s Manual. The CarFax is blank until 2012 so that isn’t much help. It comes from New Orleans originally and you instinctively know what to look for with New Orleans cars depending on when it left the city. The seller lists a ton of work performed to date and that might mean this is a turn-key driver. The exterior, finished in Ascot Gray, shows some bumps and bruises and there needs to be some rust containment effort in a few places. A close-up of the headlights shows mismatched lights. Daniel Stern Lighting will help sort that out. Although we’ve made some remarks that encourage caution, we are optimistic about this one. Click here for the listing.
At a bid of $8150, it can’t be far from the reserve. Definitely needs several bucks of body work…
We still think this is a mid-teens car if described accurately. The bodywork is less important than strong mechanicals, recent, maintenance and a nice interior. Take the dents out when you feel like it.