Hello and Happy New Year to all. What a great site! As a "newbie" I was wondering if my request is even possible? I am hooked on the W123 as I buddy of mine has one in great shape (which most of the work he did himself,) so I figure if he could do it so could I!

WTB '82-'85 w123. I am looking for a 300d (not really a 240d,) in good mechanical condition (i.e. engine, transmission, the "major" stuff.), would like no rust. I don't care if the seats are bad, or the dash is cracked, or if the vacuum locks aren't working. I would like something around 300,000 miles or less. Is this possible for $1500 - $1800? Someone help a newbie out, I will be forever in your debt!!! I am in the Atlanta area, but would consider some travel if the said car would make it back to Atlanta!!! Thanks!

You are in a good area to be able to find one of these cars without rust. I'd say the areas around Atlanta and over to Birmingham would be good areas to search. I regularly screen cars on EBay according to distance around several key zip codes.

I think you should budget for $2500 - $3000 to get a good car.

Ken300D

__________________
--------------------------
1982 300D at 351K miles
1984 300SD at 217K miles
1987 300D at 370K miles

I'm sure you can find one for that much with no trouble...but you'll spend a few bucks (and lots of man-hours) to get the car in great shape. I've just recently acquired a HUGE project. Just look for my 300CD Roadster post and you'll see what I mean.

I'm not sure if there is a reason for your '83-'85 limit, but as far as I know the '82's should be the same other than cowl vent covers. '82's had the turbo as well, which is why I haven't bought a w123 earlier than '82. That should open up a lot more cars to your search. Also, and '82 is already over 25 years old (which is the cutoff for GA to be considered antique.) http://motor.etax.dor.ga.gov/motor/plates/plate.asp?ptitle=HA

__________________
-James

'85 280GE...sold
'96 Impala SS ~ 6-speed 396
'14 Cadillac Vagon. . . . . . . . . . "Life without knowledge is death in disguise." - Hans-Peter Geerdes

Thank you for the advice on the 1982 having the Turbo as well! I figure if I could buy one for $1500-$1800 and put $1000 or so in it over the next year, I would have a decent daily driver. I like the roofless CD!!! Thanks for your help!

My neice is going to be selling hers after she picks up her "new to her" '87 300D. It is located in Ashville and is a '83 240D with an engine that was rebuilt about three years ago. It needs paint and and I'm not sure what kind of condition the interior is in. It should be available for $1500 which is less than the engine rebuild costs. I documented it on here a couple/few years ago. PM me if interested in getting the number.

__________________
Jim