I am a newbie looking for my first MBZ diesel. I was focusing the search on mid '80's 300's.

There is a '73 280 SD down the street with 80,912 miles on it. Body and interior look good.

What is the collective wisdom on this model? What would be an appropriate price range? Will this car be out of my league? As a newbie should I stick with the search for a 300?

Thanks.

Jeff