Should I buy it? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

65220SB · #1 11-24-2005, 06:52 PM

Hello,

I was wondering if I could get som help from you guys. I am in need of a more fuel efficient vehicle and I have my eye on a 69 220D. Body looks great, a little rust around the wheel wells, nothing I can fix. But the Vehicle has over 300km on it.

Now I know that they are reliable and that the engine is well a "Mercedes Diesel" but is that too many Km's on it or would it be OK. He is the original owner and it seems to be in excellent shape.

This would be the first diesel Will own. Am I getting in over my head? I am very mechanically inclined and have extensive expierence with autobody.

How are these vehicles? Are parts expensive?

I have a 65 220sb which I just finished restoring and I love it but I do not dare to drive it in the Canadian winters so i am going to opt for a diesel.

Thanks for all of your help.

Zee

JMan300sd · #2 11-24-2005, 11:07 PM

I have never even driven a 69 220d, but I will say that having driven the 240d, 300d, and the 300 sd of the early eighties, 300 k miles isnt that big deal. If the car has minimal rust, proper maintenance records and its the original owner then it could be a very nice car. Why is he selling after having had it so long?

Realize that old diesels are relativeley slow machines. Their elegance doesnt come from their engine performance, but instead from the simplicity and longetivity of the engines.

I suggest you get a PPI by someone who is familiar with merc diesels. The car shouldnt be terribly overwhelming in terms of mechanical maintenance, but parts will be relativeley expensive. I dont know about driving in severe winter conditions with this car. I know it would have the old style glow plugs and I am not sure if it has a fuel pump heater.

Palangi · #3 11-24-2005, 11:18 PM

It can be a bear to get a 220D started in cold weather. It really needs a heated garage. I would bet the engine has been replaced. 69 engines had some bad metal, usually did not make it to 100k miles. Also, make sure the heater blower works, replacing it will exceed the value of the car. Rust would be a deal killer down here, but I know it can't be avoided up there.

PagodaLover · #4 11-24-2005, 11:53 PM

I don't know, you certainly can get a diesel to start in cold weather, but you need an engine with good compression to start with. Have the compression checked thoroughly.

Check that it has a title too.

PagodaLover · #5 11-25-2005, 12:05 AM

Yeha I would check the compression now, if you want the really bad news right off the bat.

Palangi · #6 11-25-2005, 12:21 AM

A 220D would have the old slow turning starter. You probably can install the 300D turbo starter. Since he is in Canada, he is sure to see temps below freezing for extended periods. I owned a 200D in Michigan, so I know what a PITA it is to start one on a zero degree morning. A good 123 diesel would be a lot easier to live with up there.