I have the same car, 83 300sd, 237,000 miles. Air cleaner problem same as yours, drove me crazy..the rubber pads would come apart. Problem seems to be solved the last year or so after I had new motor mounts installed to keep the engine from shaking so much when started and shut down, you might want to have your motor mounts replaced.

 

I see an ad for this with 110K miles for $11,500. I haven't seen the car in person since it's not local. I'll see if I can have it inspected by a local company. The pictures look good

Any thoughts on car, price, what to look out for, etc?

 

We own a 1987 190d. It may not win any races, but has been a great car. We bought it with some problems of which I have been trying to get straight(no blower motor), and now it seems the seals in the fuel pump have failed. Never the less it has been VERY dependable, and oh what a ride from a car with a short wheel base. The only advice I would give to someone is, if you know the person who had owns a car your looking at buying, and they ran VEGGY oil, as in through the fuel tank(no conversion kit). You may get ready to change a bunch of seals(per mechanic).

 

Hi Folks-I'm new to the forum. I own a '06 330 BMW -not a MB but am seriously considering a late model E class diesel to replace my BMW. What later models( 1998 forward) are the best MB Diesel vehicles for performance, economy and reliability?

 

Thanks for the quick response. So are you saying that the more modern 2005-2006 E320CDI MODELS are good and you would recommend?

 

I am thinking of buying a '93 300sd turbo with the 3.5 six-cylinder diesel and was somewhat dismayed to see that model on your list to avoid. I haven't gone to see the car yet but it sounds like a good deal... 150,000 miles, nice and clean for $5600. Could you elaborate on the problems that make this a car to avoid?

 

hello again ...editing in hopes of response.. this looks to be a good buy if it runs..but in that it has sat since the end of 08.. my concern would be about the fuel.... this is a one owner ..everything looks great on inside and out...perhaps someone could point me to a fuel thread...thanks again...Could you please comment on this type and also the steps to getting it running,..in that it hasn't been run in 2 to 3 years .The one owner says that he believes there are relays that need to be replaced before the car will start and he is in the process of getting that info to me. The k/m of 168000 and the very good exterior and interior are good points..now I am wondering the best way of approaching starting it up in that i think about the old fuel,filters, seals, and other troubles i may not know of. He has told me he had it maintained at one of the better dealers here, and i planned to get in touch with them.. So any and all suggestions please..and we are talking about $2000.?? thanks so much for all that i have found on your site...fs

 

83 300d-t has bad ignition switch, dead rear door window motors and lots of dirt and dents, but very well maintained engine and trans. 75 240d has bad primer pump and possibly bad oil rings but looks very clean inside and out, 77 300d has hood crunched needs headlights, radiator, grill, hood but is perfect otherwise.
any one of them I can get for $500....which one is my question. My gut says go for the one with the crunched front since it has no other issues other then body work. How much would the 77 be worth in perfect shape?
Terry

 

Is this opinion based solely on the fact that it is turbo? The body is trashed, the interior is filthy. Is this the most reliable model of the three? Which one would get the best mileage? Have cheapest parts, most available parts used?
I am on a real budget. 5 kids, three grandkids, wife....all supported by dear ole' dad. Speed is not an issue, power is not an issue. The only issue is reliability and economy.
Thanks,
Terry

 

There is a 1987 300d sedan near me for $3500.150K on it ...says it is a Cali car.I know this is one of the desirable models.My question is...does this car have a bunch of smog equipment on it that will need to be removed for better performance.Looks to be in great shape.I am in Maine...rust free cars are hard to find.Thanks