1977 300d

[Jason Beal]

Hi, I am looking at a 300d 1977. The kid is asking 1,500 for it. It has many little things that do not work. Broken odometer, cruise, one window doesn't go up, parking brake cable; hood won't stay up, ac compressor. It needs brakes pads and new tires. However it cranked right up, drove very well, didn't pull at all, and the transmission was suprisingly smooth. The guy is 22 and doesn't seem to know much about cars at all, other than keeping the fluid levels correct. He told me that the car was given to him by a family friend, and he has no records. I offered 500 for the car if the mechanic gives the engine and trannie, half shafts etc. the green light. It also has no rust, he moved here from Texas.

What do you think? Am I on the verge of a decent fixer upper/daily driver, or a headache the size of Texas? It's passed emissions already, but is it a Euro if it isn't a turbo? Does this mean it is more difficult to get parts for? Let me know what you think. It certainly needs work. But even in the shape it's in now, I'm sure it would drive fine with new brakes/tires. I would love to find a diesel and just see how long I can keep it going. It shows 215k on the clock, and he says that the engine was replaced with a rebuild right before he got it, then the odometer went out. So who knows how many miles?

Your opinions are all greatly appreciated!!!!! Thanks!!!

Jason