You guys were RIGHT!
 

I told you how I recently bought a 86 420 SEL, and you told me to get the timming chain looked at. Before I could even pick it up the, owner starts the engine and BAM, timming chain broke. Well to make a long story short, the owner fixed the chain and I sold the car to a friend for the amount I bought it for.

Now I want to buy a 87 300D! I love those cars and I really want a diesle. What can you 300D drivers tell me about these puppies? I've seen some for sale with 250K, and they say nothing has been replaced. Then I see some with 150K and the engine has been rebuilt. Whats up with these things, seems they either run for ever or you get a lemon. Thanks in advance.

It's actually quite simple...

...you either come across a car that was cared for and serviced at the recommended intervals, or you discover one that has been neglected to the point that premature component failures ultimately require complete drivetrain replacement at an early life.