The 5-cylinder type 617 cast iron diesel is considered one of the best Benz engines. They powered the 300D, SD, and SDL models from 1982 through 1985. Most models imported into the USA had the turbocharger. An earlier version of the engine, sans turbo, was available as early as 1975. They are not particularly quick but at least with the turbo they are not dogs and as Craig says, they will cruise at 80 MPH all day.

There are still quite a few of them around and parts are available. In fact, compared to American cars, I'm continually amazed at how easy it is to get parts, especially little trim parts and stuff that you would think would no longer be available. An advantage of making fewer model changes, obviously. Finally, there are a lot of 617 owners and former owners on this forum to provide advice.

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"Buster" in the '95

Our all-Diesel family
1996 E300D (W210) . .338,000 miles Wife's car
2005 E320 CDI . . 113,000 miles My car
Santa Rosa population 176,762 (2022)
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . 627,762
"Oh lord won't you buy me a Mercedes Benz."
-- Janis Joplin, October 1, 1970