W108 v W123

[TN-W124 Diesel]

I now have a W123 Diesel (my first Mercedes) and it looks and runs good, but I really love the looks of a W108 & W109. My questions are would it worth the expense to restore a W123? or just drive this one a while until I find a W108 or W109 and restore it? I know my diesel gets 30MPG and the other models dont get but half of that. I would be using this car as a daily driver.

[ctaylor738]

My observation of the 123 diesel market is that it is hard to imagine a car getting more than $5,000 unless it is a super low-milage example. Anything you do in terms of work should be viewed as an expense to keep the car running. I would not put a lot of money into a 123 diesel expecting to get it back.

Possible exception is the coupes (300CD and 280CE). They have a modest following and you might recover some of your investment.

But they are great cars to drive and enjoy!

[Larry Delor]

I bought a 300D almost 2 years ago...just a couple of months ago, I had a W108 dangled in front of my face, I bit hook-line-and sinker! and have been enjoying it ever since...matter a fact I just took it out tonight for a little drive. The 300D will last for quite some time (change oil regularly..hint,hint) drive it while you restore.
-Larry

I agree with the drive it while you restore it idea with these cars (W123s). I think they are cheaper cars to run than the (W108/109s). Never get rid of your 123 however. And i would like to add the station wagon 123 should be added to the list of 123s that are going up in value.