What year did W140 body start??
 

Curious about keeping my eye out for a newer body style than the 126 300sd I already have. Interested in the 350SDL in the early 1990's but do not know what year these cars were produced. Anyone know? Anyone drive one? Are these good diesels? Saw one in the paper for about $12k.

Is the E 300 diesel a better choice than a W140 body diesel
 

Have read the horror stories about the W140 body and maintenance costs being horrorific. Is the newer E300 D a better choice for economy even though is it not the big body. I heard at Leith Mercedes in Raleigh NC that Mercedes is getting ready to release a new big body diesel into the states again. Of course I could not afford a new one. My dad is the lawyer. I am a Methodist preacher. I have to be economical.

1992.

But you need to do a lot more homework before plunking down your money on one of these. Early W140s had issues with the front suspension, electronics, and A/C evaporators. And the 3.5 liter diesel is known as "The Rod Bender."

They are also quite rare and in high demand despite these problems. I can easily see this car in my garage and if there was one for sale near me I'd go check it out right away and replace the rods if necessary. I think they are beautiful cars. You get the luxury of the S-class with the fuel economy of a midsize sedan.