Which Benz diesel year/model offers the best highway fuel mileage? Are there any specific reliability issues with this given year/model?

I just bought 1978 240D. We get approx
25 MPG. The engine is slow but tough.

There are two of the Diesels that I really like as a tech. The 1985 300D Turbo and the 124 body 300D 2.5 Turbo. In my mind both are great for economy and life.

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Benzmac:
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM

I have a 85 300D with 178K. I drive approximately 100 miles round trip to work each day(horrible traffic in atlanta) and average 26-27 mpg

I ended up with a '86 190D 2.5 litre. having just completed a 1000 mile trip the car averaged 35 mpg. I'm happy.

This being my 7th diesel, and my 3rd benz, I am fascinated by the mileage I am getting. My 98 300E Turbo-diesel, on a long trip 100% highway driving, with the cruise set anywhere from 110-120 in the span of using half a tank, I got 36 m.p.g.

Some day I will try the trip on a secondary road at 90 KPH, I hope to bust into the 40 range.

For those out there versed in the oil burners, this engine is incredible. Power galore, and great, no incredible fuel mileage considering the weight of this car.

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Chris Ecklund
98 300 DT