1985 300D Caught my eye, please advise
 

I've been looking for a 123 body MB l (280E,300D, 240D, 300TD, etc) from the early 80's for a long time. Most of them are mechanically ok...but the bodies leave a lot to be desired (rust, etc).

Well, I finally ran in E-bay into what I think is my first choice. It's a 1985 300D with 135.000 miles and 70.000 miles on a rebuilt engine. It has a very desirable 4 speed trasnmission which I think will give better performance, gas mileage and durability compared to the tricky MB auto transmission installed in a similar car.

Since these diesel engines are supposed to run for 200k or 300K miles, why would someone rebuild an engine @ 65.000 miles? Is that a sign of trouble? Or is it something appealing for a new buyer meaning that the engine is "brand" new and ready to provide many more miles?

Any other major things I should look for in this type of MB? Any inside info/advise on how to make it last (i.e. synthetic gear oil for the transmission, the engine, flush fluids more often, etc). The car is in South Florida. What would be a ball-park price for this car?

Thank you very much.

Pictures at:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=596542202

Yeah, I noticed the same things. Especially the no turbodiesel badge on the back. I think there is a big difference in 300d and a 300d turbo! Power wise at least . I had an 84 300dt and now have just a regular 300d. I think the power is about half as far as horsepower goes! It is only half as fast! NO POWER! Great car though. This one will be much cheaper. Looks good too! Good Luck!

Its definately a European car, its a 85 300D NON TURBO. None were sold in the USA in 1985. Hopefully this car has the very desireable 5 speed transmission. This car was properly federalized, it has US bumpers, headlights. This is how all euro imports should look, but I like the euro look. Awsome car, dont be scared away.

John

Coming from the Rustbelt, I'd say go for it! Really pretty car, but I bet it's kind of a dog w/out turbo.

Can you legally keep the pass. mirror off?

I raced a 84 euro 300D non turbo with a 5spd, and it was no dog! It was close.

Perfectly legal, 1/2 the non turbo US 300D's and 240D's did'nt have a passenger mirror.

John

Follow Up...
 

Thank you guy for the info. You people know your MB stuff.


Unfourtunately The guy auction it sent me this message per my request to see/test drive the car:

>Hello,

>Unfortunately we dont offer test drive and shows.
>Since this is an auction, (sell cheaper by not waisting time with
>showing/test drive).

>Otherwise the car would be listed in local classifieds for $5900.

>We apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause and >understand if
>you wish to cancel your bid.

>Sincerely,
>Lou

I just dont't have the guts to buy a car without even taking a glimpse...and his reserver in the auction is kind of high for a car that nobody can see/test drive. What do you guys think?

VERY suspicious, if you like the car, ask him ALOT of questions, and make an agreement, that if the car is other than what he described to you, you can cancel the sale..

Any rust, outside or on the floors or trunk?
Engine make any bad noises?
Any service records?
Receipt for new engine?
Steering? Brakes? Tires?
Etc etc..

John

Under those conditions, I'd pass.

Plenty of other diesel-fish in the sea!

I can understand the no test drives thing because I have sold enough cars to know what a hassle it is, but I would never begrudge someone looking at it. You can tell a lot about a car without driving it.

I think I'll pass on this one. On top of not allowing test drives or a glimpse, it seems he wants top dollar for this vehicle...more like retail value than a blind auction. Big difference and he doesn't seem to understand it.

Plenty of Diesels to choose from. I have an appointment to see/test drive a 1981 300D for $2,100 obo. I'll let you know how that goes.

Thank for all the input...