Thoughts on 79 300D, (kinda long)

An opportunity has come up. While online looking at parts, I saw a 1979 300D. The car is on Ebay, but it turns out I know the seller. Went over to see and drive the car today. You can see photos at www.millermbz.com/diesel

The story: Original owner picked up the car from factory in Germany through dealer program. The guy was very anal and kept very thorough record for the past 22 years. There is a spreadsheet with all services and he has all the receipts. The engine finally went last year with approx 258,000 miles. The owner priced new/rebuilt engines and decided it wasn't worth putting 8-10 thousand into the car. The interior is immaculate, the body excellent with the exception of some rust repair behind the rear wheel wells.

My friend bought the car with the intention of fixing it up to last another 20 years and giving it to his wife. He purchased a factory rebuilt engine. Another friend and master mechanic installed the engine. Since the engine was new, they replaced all motor mounts, all hoses, motor shocks, etc. They installed new air conditioning system with r134. Car has new brakes. The only thing that doesn't work is the sunroof. It will open but not close. After car was running and ready, turns out his wife doesn't like diesels.


My wife wants my 86 300E, wants to dump her 97 Camry. This 79 300D would make a great daily driver for me. It has the original trans, but there is no flaring. Feels solid. I was told that 79 was the last year MB used the diesel trans in the cars. In 80 they went to same trans for both gas and diesel. Anyone know if this is true?

The engine has the factory 48,000 mile or 4 year warranty. The MB tex looks new. The car was obviously well maintained.

Are there any other issues I should look for in this year/model? With a completely new engine and ACC, it would seem that most issues are already resolved.

Thanks as always for input.
--Craig