I'm looking at a 2-owner, 234,000 mile excellent condition 300SDL. Though I am a previous Mercedes owner, I'm not terribly familiar with the 6 cyl diesel cars.

This car has complete records. The current owner is a client and very compulsive. It received a new gearbox at 90,000 miles. Recently has new tires, rebuilt fuel pump, (it leaked), rebuilt vacuum pump, and a major service. The car has had synthetic oil (20/50) for most of it's life. An older yet good paint job and with a straight body and near perfect interior.

My concerns are the longevity of the gearbox and turbo and also any issues these cars are prone to.

Also, does anyone know what one should pay for a car like this?

Thank you for your input.

A complete records car that needs nothing would probably fetch $6-8000.

I don't think the vacuum pump can be rebuilt. Replaced is more like it.

The original cylinder head is susceptible to cracks if overheated. Ideally the records will indicate that the cylinder head was replaced. If not, keep an eye on the temp gauge. 'Needs head gasket' is not a good caveat on these cars.

The front end will need a $1000 refurbishment if it hasn't been done. It's not mandatory but it will restore 230K miles of looseness and clunks.

Who makes 20W-50 synthetic?

Sixto
93 300SD 3.0

I could be wrong about 20/50. I drove the car yesterday and when looking in the trunk, there was a bottle of mobile one, I thought it said 20/50. I just looked at the Mobile One website and could not find 20/50.

What concerns do I need to have about the turbo and gearbox.

How much should it cost to replace them.

Figure $400 to rebuild the turbo. Transmission, maybe $1500. MB sells rebuilt transmissions for ~$2500 plus installation.

Turbo problems are rare other than oil leaks into the intake stream. Lack of boost is typically a control problem. It's obvious when the transmission needs attention, less obvious if it's an external problem or up for a rebuild.

Take the car for a prepurchase inspection so you know what you're dealing with.

Sixto
93 300SD 3.0

I appreciate your advice. I will have an inspection. I wanted to get a handle on any potential issued i could have. I have to say, the owner has taken great care of this car.

I'm still open if anyone has more advice. I would like to go into this with as few surprises as possible.

Do a search there is a lot of info in the archives. Turbo is the last thing you should worry about, its a rare issue and at worst a $400 issue. Look more at the front end, and the cosmetic condition.

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1999 SL500
1969 280SE
2023 Ram 1500
2007 Tiara 3200

Fortunately, the car is impeccable inside and out. The car has an older; but nice quality repaint in the original color. The interior is almost perfect, 1 crack on dash, and a driver's seat with tired springs. The engine is immaculate.

All I have read, heard, chatted with owners, stay away from 6 cylinders, especially early ones. My less than 2 cents now, inflation you understand.

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83 SD

84 CD

The early 603 is a fine engine, there is no reason to avoid it. Its the later 3.5L 603's that bend rods.

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1999 SL500
1969 280SE
2023 Ram 1500
2007 Tiara 3200