New to the group, long time diesel owner...

my cars have been 3 W123s, and 3 W126s. I am presently between diesels, and am faced with a choice between two cars, both with complete books and records, similar mileage, and similar price. The two cars?

1987 SDL, and 1995 300D. I know it is well understood that the W126 was maybe the best car Mercedes ever made. The newer car has some great invovations, is a bit faster, and of course is newer...

I know some of you have experience with both of these cars, and have definite opinions on a recommended way to go here.

thanks in advance for any input or advice.

Thor Taggart
Chandler, AZ

 

Well yes i agree the W126 is one of the best car Mercedes ever made but the W124 is also one of the best also. But having an 86 300sdl i would have to tell u to lean toward the sdl cause of the turbo for the simple reason of power alone! Either way u will be happy i am sure u are already aware.

 

Avoid the 1986 and 87 SDL. They were Mercedes' first aluminun cylinder heads which can crack around the casting bosses. Mercedes solved the problem by 1990, but the cylinder walls seemed to excessively wear at around 70,000 miles and it becomes an oil burner. The best years for the SDL were between 1981 and 1985.. If you do buy the 1987, it may have a new head. If so, make sure you let it idle awhile before you switch off and you probably won't crack the head..

It seems the 1995 E300D has one major problem. The faulty biodegradable insulation on the computer wiring harness degrades at 5 years instead of the planned 50 years. You'll have more problems on 1995 E300D's from hot climates. A replacement harness costs around $1500... But if I had to choose, I'd go for the E300D over the 86 or 87 SDL.