Is a 190D as slow as a 240D?
 

As one can see by my member name, I'd like a 300D. However, I sometimes get tempted by some 240D's that I run across. I drove a W123-style 240D recently and found it to be very underpowered (even without the AC). So I figured that I don't want the 4cyl 240D; I should get the 5cyl 300D.
But THEN!, I also like the newer-style 190D - the 1984 thru 1988 190D with 2.2 liter 4cyl. I haven't had the opportunity to drive one yet.

SO, here's my question to those who may know...

For example: Is an 84 190D as slow and under-powered as an 83 240D?

They are faster, smoother, quieter and are worlds ahead in terms of handling.

I can't imagine any '80's vehicle slower than a 240d; except maybe a moped going uphill against a headwind with a chubby friend in back. But seriously folks, I'd wager their 0-60 specs wouldn't be close by half. Those that have driven both will chime in I hope.

go for the 300D 2.5 turbo
 

33MPG and good power, more than the W123 I had

RE: 85 190D
 

If there was ever a Rocket that was the little 85 190D I had. It got 48 MPG too. Too bad I let a neighbor have it for $3500. I loved that little 190.

There's a turbo and non-turbo 190D. I haven't driven either one, but I'd guess the non-turbo isn't much faster than a 240D, though it probably is a bit faster because it's lighter. You want a fast diesel? Get an 87 300D.

or an 87 190D 2.5 Turbo

Re: 87 300 D Turbo
 

I have one and it only has 80k miles on it. I bought it new.

The 240D weighs about 3250 curb weight with 67 bhp 97 lb/ft of torque and a 3.69 differential.

The 190D 2.2 weighs 2700 lbs with 72 bhp 96 ft/lbs and a 3.42 differential.

On paper, it certainly looks like the 190D would be faster, quicker, and more economical.

Now that's what i'm talkin' about - - A guy who knows his numbers! Thanks DslBnz!

And as punky stated: hopefully "those that have driven both will chime in."

Well mine is much slower than my SL :)

The 190D is not bad. A little slow off the line, but 20 and up and she goes nicely. Love the mileage too! Now with the A/C on it is a real dog from a dead start, but then revs fine.

My two cents worth....
 

Owned 1976 240 D My first, but very slow to get up to speed.
1985 190 D Turbo, Fantastic little HOTROD 48 MPG
1987 300 D Turbo, Super driver, no Slow poke, Reliable.
Makes a fellow want to get a cup of that diesel smoke and set it on the nightstand when you go to bed at night. LOL! :D ;)

tech specs
 

1984-1985 190D 2.2
5-speed manual 0-100km/h (0-62.1 mph) 18.4 sec top speed 97 mph
4-speed automatic 0-100km/h (0-62.1 mph) 19.1 sec top speed 94 mph

1980-1983 240D
4-speed manual 0-100km/h (0-62.1 mph) 22 sec top speed 89 mph
4-speed automatic 0-100km/h (0-62.1 mph) 24.7 sec top speed 86 mph

FAST! I loved that little car. Good luck finding one though.

The turbo model is 123 hp and 168 lb-ft of torque.

I really don't get all the concern about the "slowness" of a 240D. My '82 automatic trans accelerates from stop lights equally with other traffic, and often ahead of it. On the freeway, it climbs to 70-75 with adequate speed. This car is a classic, and I would prefer it to the design of the 190.