The problem with the W124 diesels is that they are expensive to repair once they start giving you trouble, and a tired 300D is a nightmare waiting to come true.

For a bugdet of $6000, a well-maintained W123 (300D) would be, for me, a better choice, although they are extremely difficult to find (becasue the owners do not want to sell them if they are in good shape).

A. Rosich
S320, 1998
E320T, 1995