Why is the S class the "problem" model in those years. Was the same engine used in the other models?

The W126 any year any engine are the best S-class diesel's.

The best 126 diesel is whichever one I own. Handsdown.

While the 300D 2.5 (called the 250D in German market) was a great engine, i think the statement made is that the 1985 (being the last year) 300SD diesel is the best S-Class Diesel. Your W124 is an E-class.

The latter early-six-cylinder diesels have reliability concerns, however, once addressed, these apparently are reliable engines too (but what's that saying?). In comparison, the 5 cyl used in the early W126s (while never in their domestic markets in an S-class) did enjoy use in the W123 in both the US & foreign markets.

If best diesel used in an S-class means the most reliable from the factory, then the early 5-cyl gets the top notch.

Although, I do own a 5 cyl W126 i'm not biased in saying this as i stumbled upon a diesel, and didnt know what the heck i was buying anyway. Just lucked out I guess.

On paper a six-cyl Diesel makes more sense for the US-market, esp the 350 SD/SDL. Luckly they were made for a few years and in low enough numbers to not tarnish MB's excellent Diesel reputation. Until I joined this forum, I thought all MB Diesels are absolutely fantastic (followed by Peugeot).

IMO, any "fixed" six-cyl diesel S class (W126) engine is better overall than the older 5cyl model.

Can we all just get along now? :D

1987 baby!
 

my vote is for the w126. :cool:

Only cause u own one!! ;)

I forgot to cast my official vote. The OM60x engines of all specs.

BECAUSE, when you get past 4K in top gear, the engine is nearly silent!:)

I would also vote for the W126. There is something classy about them.

I have an -85 SD and an -86 SDL. Both are fantastic cars in my opinion.

Anders

There is a HUGE difference in the pre and post '85 cars in regard to engine drivability,noise,smoke etc..etc

with that being said I like the 126 car(owned an 85 SD at one time)

but my vote still goes for the 140 car...hands down the favorite of the 3 MB's I have owned...maybe they will come to the US with a 220 in a diesel?...;-)


Warren
1992 300SD 175K
Columbus Ohio

This comes back to my original question. I have an 83 SD and love it. I want to add another car but one made in the 90's. Should I forget about it and get a gasser?

That is the crux of the problem. We told you that there were two different chassis made in the 90's, with significant differences! You have to tell us which one you want before anyone can help you further.

Yes, get a gasser.

Thank you Rick, I guess I am confused also, I wanted to find out which model would be the best. My objective is to have a newer car (90's) and stay with the S class. I do not know which model I want as of yet because I do not know the pro's and cons of each.

And you won't learn the pros and cons in terms that matter to you from a bunch of stiffs who spend too much time on-line :) Check out as many 90s S-class Diesels as you can then come back for context and perspective. At the very least try a W126 (90-91) and a W140 (92-95). Not much difference in features, performance and driveability within each range, world of difference between ranges. In case it hasn't been covered, the 90-91 W126 was available in SWB 350SD and LWB 350SDL forms. Some would argue long and longer. The W140 only comes in SWB. Some would say just right :p

Sixto
95 S420
87 300SDL

Thank you. Dennis

And that, in a nutshell, is the reason the forum members "bash" the 90-91 300 SDL. A fine vehicle, no doubt, but, if you purchase one for 10K or so, and THEN need to put connecting rods in it at some point in the future, on your own, without the benefit of a Mercedes warranty, you certainly will not be thanking god like MapleLeaf did.

You will, however, be spending another several thousand dollars and you will be "bashing" the 350 for the rest of your days on this forum:mad: :mad: :mad:

I'm sorry but any vehicle that requires a new engine to keep it going, below 250K miles, cannot be considered a very good product, IMHO.