James May on Top Gear once tried to lighten a W123. I think it was the across Africa show.
As a child I used to have an electronic kit that allowed you to make all sorts of things. It got a bit boring so I used to see how many components could be removed and still have the thing work. It showed just how much unnecessary stuff was included.
You could just try taking things off & see if it still works. Stay away from the brakes!!

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Grumpy Old Diesel Owners Club group

I no longer question authority, I annoy authority. More effect, less effort....

1967 230-6 auto parts car. rust bucket.
1980 300D now parts car 800k miles
1984 300D 500k miles
1987 250td 160k miles English import
2001 jeep turbo diesel 130k miles
1998 jeep tdi ~ followed me home. Needs a turbo.
1968 Ford F750 truck. 6-354 diesel conversion.
Other toys ~J.D.,Cat & GM ~ mainly earth moving