I just went to check out an '84 300D today, and it turned out to be a non-turbo 300D. Of course it couldn't be a cool 300D stick shift, at which point I would have bought it on the spot, but I am wondering if owning this car would be a headache in the states? What about parts? Will it be difficult to get parts for a motor that wasn't even sold in the states that year? Is that the same motor as was in the pre-'82 300d? What about the brakes? This car actually had ABS brakes! Now, how am I going to get parts for that in the US? And how would I even know if pads and calipers are the same? Are the transmissions the same? I know the modulator on top of the valve cover definitely is not the same as a US model. I know most of the car is going to be the same as a US model, but there are some peculiarities about this thing that concern me.

Any opinions from those of you who have some knowledge on such cars would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Greg

Greg,

I own a 500SEL euro model, and I can say that parts are not too hard to come by (albiet sometimes a bit more pricey). The main problem I have encountered is that the wiring of the car is different and US manuals will not support the euro versions. The wiring may actually be very similar, but color codes are definetly not even close, and locations of electrical components will vary slightly. Aside from that, if you have some common sense and a little extra time on your hands for problems that may arise... no need to worry about euro cars in U.S.

Matt

Is this a grey market car? If so, I would be VERY, VERY, careful about purchasing this car. You can search this forum for more info previously posted re: grey market cars.
Good luck in your search.:D