A2T

Im looking at buying my 1st mercedes, after driving VWs and Audis for many years. I am looking for a nice diesel, as these gas prices are ridiculous, and I plan on converting engine to run on WVO at some point down the road. I know virtually NOTHING about Mercedes, I have maybe $3-4k to spend, and I want the most reliable diesel Merc out there. In that price range, what do you all recommend as far as model and year go ? It must be automatic. Much thanks for comments and help to a newbie!

Paul

Hattaresguy

Their is a big WVO crowed over at:
http://www.mercedesshop.com/

They may be able to help you with the conversion and direct you to some WVO specific sites.

I would recommend a 82-85 300D/SD for $3k-$4k. Do a little research, these are good cars but old cars.

As with any old car they will need a bunch of work, look for the best example you can find and bring it up to spec.

Johtotahti

Paul,
With 3-4k you should indeed be able to find an early eighties Benz in quite a decent shape. These cars are said to have a very good work horse motor (the 3.0 L 5-cylinder Diesel) - and people often milk half-a-million miles or more out of these (with proper maintenance). To offer my two cents, you may want to look for a car that has the tranny replaced as these tend to go around 150k and is obviously a major pain/expense. Also, like with any older car, unless you have very deep pockets (who does???), you must have the 'knowhow', or at least be willing to learn it, to take care off some/most regular maintenance issues - things do happen. Having said that, the Benz diesels are very trustworthy wheels indeed...

w123_w126

Be prepared to pay a little more than your price range for a better example – there are many others doing what you’re doing. I would recommend a car with service records. if properly maintained the engine and transmission can last over 400,000 – I know b/c mine has. The OM617 is very easy to care for and needs only oil and filter changes and valve adjustments for a long life. Here are some things to look for when buying a first generation 126:

Have an independent mechanic you trust check the car bumper to bumper. Put it up on a lift and check the condition of the following components:

Flex discs
Rear axle shackle
Axle shaft
Rear wheel-bearing
Drive line bearing and support
Propeller shaft boot
Drive line support and bushing
Exhaust hangers
Exhaust system
Engine mounts and shocks

Check for rust while it’s up there as well.

gimpy9195

just sold a 84 300d for $1800 where were you! they are worth a lot more than that but def a car that will last! get one.