Is this worth considering?
 

I know nothing about diesels but would like to learn. Would this be a good starter project?

http://mysite.verizon.net/res8o8rq/1983mercedesturbo300sd/

I would suggest an older beater. That way if you screw it up, it is less money out of your pocket for the experiments.

it really depends on what the asking price is.
 

170K is low mileage for that car. I have two, both over 280K, and they run very well. black smoke could be due to a clogged air filter, or a meddled with IP air filter is easy to fix. a meddled with IP can be impossible.
it concerns me that the PO only has 100 miles on the car. it appears to be in good condition, but you will need a lot of learning before you will be happy with this car. if it is cheap, (under 2000), and if it is not a necessary driver, I say get it. if the seller wants tons of money, pass. Lots of similar vehicles for sale without the problems this may have.
John

How many dollars? That is going to be key in making your decision. Have you looked at this forum members SD? http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/mercedes-benz-cars-sale/167134-mercedes-300sd-%242500.html

Price is $800 but I would offer no more than $400 or $500.

Running and driving you could not go wrong with your offer.

yeah, 800 is a steal
 

the car looks great for 800. assuming it is near you and you won't have to pay for shipping.
John

Located about 2 minutes from my house.

This car has the more durable yet slower OM617 turbodiesel. They are easy to work on and parts are reasonable and their track record is phenomenal. It is probably one of the best engines ever made, bar none.

Is that the same one that is parked by the "cash For Cans" place on 78?

I go by there daily, taking my daughter to my sister's for home schooling. That is the reason I bought my 300D. I have my daughter every other week, so one week is a 106 miles a day, and the other is 20 miles a day.

I see the one at the can place driving through Lavon quite frequently. I have also seen a yellow 300D in Lavon, and a white 123, (do not know if 240 or 300) in Josephine.

I did see a 123 230e this morning going to Greenville on I-30. Have not seen the 280e yet.

You cannot go wrong at that price. Some folks get more than $500. for a parts car. If you are successful in fixing it's issues, you might get a fine running vehicle out of it.

FWIW, those aren't the correct wheels for that vintage SD so, you may encounter some offset related issues.

Otherwise, I say go for it!

Jump on it! The paint looks good, and I see no obvious signs of rust.

I agree..........
 

.......for $800 it's a steal. If the a/c works, it's worth 3 times that. For that price it is a great learner. Actually looks to be in better shape than mine originally. Take it for a test drive and let us know what the engine sounds like.

In New England a rust free body like that without an engine is worth $500!:D

If its runs and drives you can't really go wrong for $500-$800. Body looks decent enough, re pad the seats and clean it up.