I am looking for a cheap benz for daily communting in Atlanta GA.
I drive about 40 miles a day. Luxury is the last thing on my mind - reliability is #1. I don't want to pay a fortune on repairs and can do a little work myself - changing oil/filters etc. I need some opinions on wether I should get an 300 SD model or just the plain 300D. What about a 240? I am concerned that one is too slow and would get me killed around here - everyone drives like a maniac here. Thanks in advance.

The 240s are slow, especially with automatic transmission. The 300Ds are better, but for the best power and ride- look for a 81-85 300SD. Will be a smooth riding and very safe car. For better mileage, with decent power, the 300D would be good, but mileage on the SD should be good as well, considering the size of the car. Good luck.

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2004 Toyota Sequoia Limited 4wd
1991 Lincoln Town Car Executive
1991 Cadillac Sedan DeVille
1988 Mercedes 300SEL
1972 Chevrolet Caprice Kingswood Estate 9-passenger wagon
1973 Pontiac Grand Ville
(Prior MB's: 1974 240D, 1985 380SE, 1984 190D, 1993 400SEL)

I've heard that the 240D with a stick shift accelerates just as well as a non-turbo 300D with its automatic. I agree that the 240D with an automatic is a little "sluggish". Whatever you choose, be assured that you are driving a "tank" and will be pretty safe in any collision with most other automobiles on the road.