I'm very interested in purchasing a 1985 300td wagon. I'm new to this post and need some help in the what's and what nots of this model and year or years around previous or after. Questions are what was the best year for this model? What are the common issues with this model. What to be aware of mechanically. Where to go to do my homework...Thanks in advance

Yankee

 

I like1985 best. Has the most advanced features of the model's production and many known issues from 123 chassis run between 1977-1984sorted by M-B engineering. Condition is absolutely everything on these cars. Look for rust at jack points, under doors @ weatherstrip, in front valence panel, in wheel lips, in rear quarters and on floors. Check the heater core carefully to make sure it is not leaking - replacement is a bear of a job requiringconplete disassembly of the dashboard. Could cost between $600 to $750 to have the shop do this work for you. Most everything else wears like titaniumso get the lowest mileage td you can afford and you'll be way ahead of the game.

 

Thanks for the reply to my request...A few more questions what are the major difference between the 123 and 124 chassis..what is the better engine the 5 cylinder or the newer 6 cylinder. Final I have heard that the aluminum headds will warp if the car over heats..I love turbo diesels and turbos in general so I'm looking for another 1/2 million mile car....Thanks

Yankee

 

The 5 cyl on the 1985 (123) is die hard. The drawback is the SLS is attached to the head and if you need a new head or motor, it's tough and expensive to replace. Rust, blow by, windshield leaks (look under the carpets for evidence of leaks), Vacuum Leaks (central door locks, does engine shut-off quickly), AC/heater, cruise control, front end, SLS (self Leveling rear suspension), are all things that need to be checked thoroughly.

The 87's (124) do have issues if you don't keep them from overheating. They are more particular and complicated to work on than the 85's if you are doing the maintenance yourself. They have more potential for speed and performance upgrades and have more refined features than the older 85's. If you properly maintain it, there should be no problems.

I bought a 1985 300td Turbo and love it. I ended up getting one with higher mileage because it was in better condition overall than what I was able to find. I looked at 9 wagons before I settled on mine. If I were to do it over again, I would have looked at the 1987's more. I was turned off by them due to hearing they were so difficult to work on compared to the 1985's. This might be true, but if performance/speed/fuel economy is your goal, the 1987 is the better choice. That said, I personally think the looks of the 1979-1985 300td (turbo or NA) are perfect (1985 being the best choice of that group) and shortly after I got mine I was officially obsessed with w123's. Now I want a 300D Turbo or a 300CD Turbo for my wife and my brother is saving up to go with a MB diesel also!

Good luck.