I guess what would be best are some links to sites with more info. Looking to buy older D for mpg, and also longevity. I drive 1,000 miles a week....and need something that will last...so it is either a 4cyl honda, or an MB diesel. Since I am a little different anyways, why not the MB?

I need to know if there is a site with some histtory and basic info like what models for what years, what to expect...so that I can see if I am better off with a 78200 or 84 300 etc. Also any tips etc would be helpful. Like...am I better to buy something totally rust free with more miles on it, or buy something with fewer miles even if there is a little rust etc... Basically a buyers guide, or at least some good basic what to look fors.

Thank you a ton.
hope to be a more active member soon, when I have my car!!!

 

Well .... location would be a good place to start.
I had similar dilemma. Used to drive 83 -300 tdt, but finally after fixing 10 oil leaks got tired of the stains on the driveways.
Unfortunately I need a wagon and since 85 US didn't import reliable Mercedes diesel wagons and in CA it could take few more years to see them. Used to have 93' 2.3l diesel sedan. Great car at 35 MPG but hard to convert to wagon.
So .. finally I bought newer gas wagon. Great car, really great, but the gas mileage really sucks (even if it is 50% better, than US-made competition).
So I am sad to say, but having very nice Mercedes wagon in the garage, for my present 500 miles commute I bought VW Jetta. No comparison in comfort to Merc, but good power and can't beat the 46 MPG ratings, what makes 32 MPG at my speeds. (Merc did 18)

 

Re-read your questions (I do it sometimes).
The good MB models are 78-85.
The non-turbo model are rally slow, so unless you are on perfectly flat terrain, non-recommended.
Legendary 300 td are good for 600,000 miles on the average, so don't worry about mileage.
The upholstery can cost you more, than those engine fixing.
Good luck.

 

While I somewhat agree with Kajtek1 in that the non-turbo is slower than the the turbo, I don't agree that they are as slow as discussed. I am on my third W123 diesel and love them. Had a 1980 300D and I would have to agree that it was the slowest thing known to man. However dependable. I have had two 240D's both with the four speed stic and they are fantastic.

I now own the 1982 240D, 4-speed stick with 267,000 miles and nearly no repair bills over the past several years. I only drive it during the winter and put 12-15,000 miles on her per year. It is a fantasic car that just goes and goes. The heat and defrost is marvelous but as with most W123's the A/C is there and not functioning as designed and the car is doing what I bought it to do and that is to keep the SLK in the garage!

Thanks.....