Best pre-1985 Merc for long distance cruising (1100m+)
 

Petitioning the wisdom of the masses.

Thanks

Pete

the 85SD with seats upgraded from a 90+124 would be my ideal. the flat design of the 126 pre85 (even in perfect condition) is a tad flat and uncomfortable for my tastes.
if you must stay in the 85 era, a euro 85300D would be a 124, and that'd be my choice...
better aerodynamics, and power, also better fuel economy and comfort in the seats with cloth material.

126 300 SD. By far the most refined driver of the era.

I know you said pre 85 but by far my SDL is the ultimate long haul cruiser. I have done many jonts in that car and it always get raves from the passengers. It's roomy, solid and classy. Owning both the SD and SDL they are truely two different animals there more like brother and sister than sisters.

85 300D.

When I drive to Ithaca, I put my chair in a reclined back fashion and put on some tunes. Cruising at 73 mph and it's like driving an armchair.

Absolutely love it.

Sniff, sniff....you're really making me miss my SDL that I had to sell!:D

I came to those crossroads as well. Sink the dollars into it and do it right or move it on down the line. I am very happy with my decision.

My wife had this unreasonable notion that I could only have TWO Mercedes....imagine that!! So I had to sell the SDL in order to acquire the 91 300D.

I agree with the comments on the SDL. I just did a 2500 mile trip with my wife and kids and our SDL was very comfortable. We were even able to fit a full size cooler behind my seat so we didn't have to stop for drinks and snacks. :thumbsup2:

I just finished rebuilding the entire front end so I'm looking forward to the next road trip.:cool:

So, Chad. Should I send a copy of your post to my wife? In her new mini-van, the cooler has to be placed in the rear trunk area. :(

I miss driving my 300SDL.

If you want to get another SDL, the post might help.:D

I'm getting the front end aligned next Tuesday at my trusted indie shop. They're replacing the compressor clutch and getting the AC back online as well.

Coda is almost into maintenance only mode. :thumbsup:

Any SD.

It's just damn hard to beat the 126 chassis for long trips.

Agree
 

22 hours of straight driving with no pain/strain. :D

This is true. Even a POS W126 is comfy on long trips.