Hey all, I just picked up a 1990 300D 2.5. I've had a long relationship with diesel vehicles, namely VW, but I've always longed for a nice Merc. The attention to detail and mechanical complexity of the Merc is a thing of beauty. It's just staggering to see the differences in something as simple as a fuel filter flange. All the banjo fittings, to the bleeding screws, the mounting flange, even something as simple and trivial as the bolts holding it to the engine. Just a gorgeous design and incredible engineering prowess. Next time you're under the hood, have a long look at that fuel filter flange... what a beauty. The machined surfaces, the quality of metal used in the casting. So.... German. Call me weird, but you just don't see that much anymore. There's nothing finer than a 3 point star.

That said, it's good to be here. Here's a few photos of my recent acquisition, it's pristine. I bought it from the original owner who was a doctor in Vancouver. It started it's life in St. Louis at Boulevard Motors (Interesting Article) I have every record in a folder (about 3 inches thick). There was even a notepad in the glove box that recorded every refueling since 1990, miles, dates, location and even fuel price. The original window sticker, all manuals and supplemental booklets. This thing even has the original MB windshield in it. I'm almost scared to drive it anywhere.

It does have boost issues (I ordered everything I need to switch to the pressure type WG actuator), there are vibration issues which presumably are the mounts. Other than that, it's been well taken care of. I plan to leave it mostly stock, except for perhaps the wheels. What a lovely car! I can't wait to work the boost bugs out, pulling hills are a bit ridiculous.

Attached Thumbnails