Questions and Answers
Mercedes Benz Diesels
Q. Hi Vince, I know you're a long time owner of a Mercedes Benz diesel. I am currently beginning my search for a good diesel to become my daily driver. I've heard the 350 is something to avoid and to my surprise found out this same motor type was being used in the early 90's models.
I'm asking your advice regarding this quest. What years would be the best to concentrate on, 70's 80's? I'm not fussy about how old a car is and in fact enjoy working on older cars anyway. I sort of think I want a diesel with everything cast iron not aluminum heads like the later models. If you could recommend a range of years/models that historically are reliable I'll concentrate my search for a fine example of an older MB Diesel.
Thanks Much,
RichardA. I would recommend the late 70s, early 80's 3.0 liter 5 cylinder turbo diesels. The 300CD (123 Chassis), 300D (123 Chassis), 300SD (126 Chassis) or the 300TD (123 Chassis). They are a real work horse and will last forever with minimal care. I wouldn't recommend a non-turbo, you'd probably be disappointed in the performance. I have a 1983 300D with 221,000 miles and on a recent trip to Atlantic City New Jersey, I averaged 46 mpg.
They shouldn't be too hard to find, there are a lot of them around. The problem would be finding someone willing to part with one.
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