Linda,

It seems like you're missing the forest for the trees. The cardinal rule is to find the car in the best condition and with the most complete records. Color, upholstery and options as well as 82-84 vs 85 are secondary considerations. These cars are not so plentiful in the Bay Area that you'll have an 84 and 85 in the exact same condition that it boils down to which year you prefer.

Something more important to think about at this point is whether you want a $2000 car that needs $3000 in work or a $4000 car that needs $1000 in work. If you someone offers you a $5000 300D that doesn't need work, maybe I can interest you in one of my Diesels

Sixto
95 S420
91 300SE
87 300SDL
83 300SD