Youngman41

I very much appreciate the timely and useful answer in my previous thread (longevity of 300E vs 300D) and should have put this information with it. Forgive my inexperience.

I'm looking at a 1986 300E - 160,000 miles. From what I've been told and have read, it will need a timing chain replacement. Paint is decent, but fading on roof. A few other more minor items. It's priced at $4000 - I think I can get it for about $3500, perhaps less.

I'm comparing a 1987 300D with 190,000 miles. It is priced a bit higher ($5950) - but I think I can get it for around $5000 from discussions.

In an apples to apples comparison (given current mileage of each), which do you think might last longer and what would you say are the performance differences between the two?

Thanks again.

Ted

A 190,000 mile diesel will have a much greater longivity than it's gas counter part. If I am remembering correctly, the '87 300D is a six banger and quite powerful for a diesel. However, the 300E will run circles around it ... but for not as long ! Take care of the diesel and it will go for hundreds of thousands of additional miles. Everything else on the car my wear out but the engine keeps on going. Pretty much bullit proof

Another plus is the great milage you will get with the diesel. You can expect 30- 32 MPG on average

S-Man

I have a 1987 300e with 210,000 miles on it. It runs great, does not burn oil, and passes emission tests with flying colors. I expect it will last another 200,000 miles. If you want zip, get a gas burner. If you want to drive a million miles, get the diesel.

S-Man