Yeah - I've owned my 300SD for over 12 years and just found out recently that they start in 2nd gear.

What are the rpm's at 70 mph? Mine runs about 3200...

__________________
Mine: 1987 MB 420 SEL - 62K (Dec 2019)
Mine:1991 MB 350SDL - 244K (Aug 2011)- Totalled 9/14/2016
Mine:1981 MB 300SD - 326K mi (July 1997)-sold
Wife's: 2008 MB C300 Sport - 92K mi (April 2009)

It's a harsh world out there, and at this site too!

-=DeanstuD=- 1994 -1993 was typo 12:30 am and a few adult beverages.

The turbo is not the issue here, If you look at my posts you may see that.

tbomachines Thanks for the welcome - I have been here before, I have owned a 300D and my better half has a C230, gasser. Happy wife, Happy Life.

pawoSD - tbomachines - thanks for addressing the question and what to look for.

I drive alot and my last 4 vehicles I have bought for under $2000, driven 60-80,000 miles with-in 1-2 years, and then sold for more than the purchase price, without a ton of expensive repairs, just basic sound maintenance. I have driven over 1.4 million miles in my life, no I'm not a trucker, Vehicles just have to get me from A to B, and they don't have to be pretty to do it.

I'm looking at the 300SD because I like the quality and the room they offer. I also like the 5 cylinder vs. the 6. At 6' 4" my kids don't fit in the seat behind me, the 300D and the C230 have that issue.. I know from my 300D that there are a lot of little things that can add up if your not careful or a good DIY.

Thanks, I'll let you know if I take another look at the "NON TURBO No Overdrive 300SD"