w116 vs. w123

[LuLu]

I'm a new owner of a MB about six months and now I'm ready to buy another one the only MB I've ever driven is the one I have now a '80 300TD. And I have been looking for a '81-'84 300D or TD but I've just come across a '78 300SD Turbo with 160K that will need some work (but that's a different thread). My question is how different is the w116 from my w123 as in handling, gas mileage, finding parts. Leg room would be important, I'm 6'7" and have enough room in the 300TD but don't ask the person in the seat behind me . What I think I know is that the engine and trany are the same and the w116 is prone to rust other than that I need your help.

Les

[MB-Owner-in-ind]

Originally Posted by LuLu

I'm a new owner of a MB about six months and now I'm ready to buy another one the only MB I've ever driven is the one I have now a '80 300TD. And I have been looking for a '81-'84 300D or TD but I've just come across a '78 300SD Turbo with 160K that will need some work (but that's a different thread). My question is how different is the w116 from my w123 as in handling, gas mileage, finding parts. Leg room would be important, I'm 6'7" and have enough room in the 300TD but don't ask the person in the seat behind me . What I think I know is that the engine and trany are the same and the w116 is prone to rust other than that I need your help.

Les

They only made the 116 a few years vs seven for the 123 model so parts aren't as plentiful but the ride is wonderful and it is quieter. The mileage is a little lower due to the extra weight.

[Luke]

Welcome to the forum. A 300TD is a diesel station wagon, more properly called an estate car. All the cars you are considering use the same engine in either normal or turbo form. Bullet proof. The W116 S class is a really neat car, nice wide track, quite roomy, and has some nice creature comforts like door panel heat and cooling vents. Hard to find nice examples though. Later W123's (I think after '82) added more wood and usually came with bundt alloy wheels. I think the turbo was introduced in '83. Bottom line is to find a straight, rust free, example that someone has cared for. Can't go too wrong.

[diametricalbenz]

The w116 does have much more leg room. Sit in the drivers seat and push it as far back as the rack can go and there's still enough leg room for the people behind you. Since you're 6' 7" you'll probably fit quite comfortably.

[thebenzbar]

Originally Posted by LuLu

I'm a new owner of a MB about six months and now I'm ready to buy another one the only MB I've ever driven is the one I have now a '80 300TD. And I have been looking for a '81-'84 300D or TD but I've just come across a '78 300SD Turbo with 160K that will need some work (but that's a different thread). My question is how different is the w116 from my w123 as in handling, gas mileage, finding parts. Leg room would be important, I'm 6'7" and have enough room in the 300TD but don't ask the person in the seat behind me . What I think I know is that the engine and trany are the same and the w116 is prone to rust other than that I need your help.

Les

Either one... they are both capable and durable chassis. I had a '74 450SEL (w116) and it was as tight as a ship and moved like a land yacht. Definitely do your homework on the body of the car - after all rust is the #1 deterrent. Handling wasn't too shabby but a w123 is more nimbler. Remember, you are comparing an S-class (w116) to the mid-size w123 E-series of the past. That '78 300Sd will have a shorter wheelbase than my 450SEL but they are both massive-sized cars (of that MB era). Leg room is a definite advantage for the 300SD, and if that is on your top of the list - then the SD might be the answer to your question. You already have an estate, so why not venture into the w116 - there are similarities as well as differences, take your time and pick out the things on that car that will need attention sooner or later. Interior parts are harder to find in good shape - so be weary of an interior that will need lots of attention. Post pics! Good luck!

[boneheaddoctor]

Originally Posted by LuLu

I'm a new owner of a MB about six months and now I'm ready to buy another one the only MB I've ever driven is the one I have now a '80 300TD. And I have been looking for a '81-'84 300D or TD but I've just come across a '78 300SD Turbo with 160K that will need some work (but that's a different thread). My question is how different is the w116 from my w123 as in handling, gas mileage, finding parts. Leg room would be important, I'm 6'7" and have enough room in the 300TD but don't ask the person in the seat behind me . What I think I know is that the engine and trany are the same and the w116 is prone to rust other than that I need your help.

Les

I get better milage with my W116 even though its the larger heavier car.

THe W116 is more of a drivers car....it has a wonder feel to it the W123 lacks.

Parts are easy to find....getting a rust free one is the most important factor.

http://www.angelfire.com/al3/alfie/gtg/negtg.html

thats the link for thebenzbars photos at the North East get together last weekend...the tan 300SD was mine.

[thebenzbar]

Originally Posted by boneheaddoctor

[url]...the tan 300SD was mine.

Hey BHD, what size are those tires on the Ronals again? Thanks.

[boneheaddoctor]

Originally Posted by thebenzbar

Hey BHD, what size are those tires on the Ronals again? Thanks.

225/50-15