I just picked up a rust-free 1984 300D federalized Euro with a manual transmission for $900.

A true "rust free" W123 is well worth $900.00. There are not many survivors out there. Finding one is a major success. Manual trans is a plus.


Paint is faded and there are some small dents but the title is clean and has never been in an accident.

Again, a rare survivor ....

Shortly after driving it hard to see where the weak spots are, the transmission started to make unusual noises in 1st, 2nd and 3rd, but in 4th, even a high speed there are no obvious negative sounds. Draining the fluid revealed very little debris, nothing really obvious or glaring, just really needed a change.

Could need the normal R&R items which come with any old car.


Anyways.....I found a 716.005 with low (165k) miles that the gentleman said he will install and guarantee for $350.00

Keep the manual .... Install a 1985 2:88 differential and you're really rolling. Install new clutch, et cet ...


What viable options are there to repairing the one in the car now?

Keep the manual, change all the "normal stuff" ... and you found yourself a keeper.