I am considering buying an early to mid eighties diesel for a semi-daily driver. I was amazed to see how relatively inexpensive they are. One of the main considerations is which has the best (meaning highest capacity) Air Conditioning? This seems like a silly question, but with summer in the Southwest, it’s important.

I am thinking about either a 123 or 126 chassis (300D or 300SD). I would love a TD wagon, but I’m afraid that all the extra volume inside the car, plus all the added glass area would make it tougher to cool off.

Any other input as to the pluses & minuses of each model would be appreciated!

THANKS EVERYONE

I dought that there would be any difference in the air conditioners if they were both working properly .However I think there is quiet a bit of difference between the D and the SD I have an 81 SD and love it But it is a big car a big smooth highly refined auto. I just drove a friends 83 300 D last week and it reminded me more of my old 240 D as far as handleing but of course much quicker.One thing I like about the SD and I guess it's really unimportion is that an 81 with good paint and up graded wheels is had to tell from a 91 (Same chassis) I would drive a good example of each before I bought, they are both fine cars..........
William Rogers........

IMHO, A/C and heating are way better in the 126 than in the 123. Freeze you out in the summer and burn you up in the winter--but I guess you won't need to worry about that part :)

My w126 300SD (1985) has a AC vent at the end of the center console for the rear passengers. I like the 300SD for its comfortable ride. But I like my w123 300D (no rear AC vent) for easy parking due to shorter body and it has enough shoulder room as 300SD in the back seat. I can lock or unlock the whole car, 300SD, from any outside locks. For the 300D, I can only do it from the driver's door.


David

I bet that the reason the S's have better a/c is because of all of the added insulation ...works not just for sound, but for heat as well...especially that second firewall.
...my 2 cents
-Larry