In addition to the 300SD coming on board later next month (more on that adventure later, but will be looking for advice on what items to address/fix before a cross-country pick-up trip), I'm in the market for a manual 240D for my teenagers. I want a manual, that's the primary driver of the 240D vs a 300D or CD... although I'd love to also find a converted CD in manual for myself.

But I digress... here is a 240D that I am liking, a 1980.

Classic 1980 Mercedes 240D -- Diesel

I've heard to try and stick with the 1983 year for this car, but also that the non-electric windows and older HVAC can be desirable. I want "easy" in terms of functioning driver, so thinking the hand crank windows are a nice benefit. That one above has a passenger window that needs help up, but can't be bad. Interior and exterior look good, and he has extra parts.

Is a 1983 significantly better (other than being newer) than a 1980 or 1978, for example? Any specific items to make a big deal out of checking or looking for?

Thoughts?

83 is the last year so you get the 240D with all of the kinks worked out.

No. There is no meaningful difference in years for a 240D. 83 was just the last year they were sold in the US. Not the last year they were sold world wide. That was 85. With these the only thing that matters is price and condition.

- Peter.

__________________
2021 Chevrolet Spark
Formerly...
2000 GMC Sonoma
1981 240D 4spd stick. 347000 miles. Deceased Feb 14 2021
2002 Kia Rio. Worst crap on four wheels
1981 240D 4spd stick. 389000 miles.
1984 123 200
1979 116 280S
1972 Cadillac Sedan DeVille
1971 108 280S

I think I have seen some with the automatic acc; I prefer the manual a/c. The manual windows are great too. I used to have an all-manual '81 and I loved it. Sold it to a friend and he promised me 1st right of refusal if he ever parts with it. If you're really lucky you'll find one with the front suspension already gone through - they all need it by now.

I just saw a sweet one the other day. A 240d 5 speed I think it was near Philly, but I can't find it now on craigslist probably gone.

This one?

1982 Mercedes Benz 240D / 5 SPEED MANUAL / EXCELLENT CONDITION

Looks good, except not a fan of the blue on this color. Look like a plastic dash cover maybe?

Think I can get the one I linked to above (http://norfolk.craigslist.org/cto/4919703793.html) for $2,500. Need to get up my nerve to just do it.

Late '79 on has a slightly higher output engine. After '79 the upholstery was updated and it is a little cushier. The AC thermostat and vent controls were updated on the late 80's, but not with the automatic climate control. After '79 it seems that the power windows became standard, and a power mirror on the passenger door was included. Other tweaks as well, but these were the most significant. I wouldn't pass up an earlier example in really nice shape, but the end of the run was a little nicer car.

__________________
'79 240D

Yep! Yeah the color could be better. Low miles though.

Coming out to OR to pick up a 1980 diesel next month. You located in the southwest by any chance?

Condition and maintenance is everything, but those things being equal, I would choose a car built in the 80's.

Some time around 1980, the cam shaft and rockers were upgraded with a corresponding increase in HP. The new cams last longer, even for the life of the engine if taken care of.

If you find an older one in nice shape, take off the oil cap and feel the cam lobes with your finger. The older cams could get scored. If the cams are smooth and not scored, you are good to go at least in that area.

I also like the improved glow plugs on the later models, as well as manual tranny, windows, and climate control.

Regards,

W.

The only thing I'd be concerned about with that car, assuming it's not been abused and the condition seems to indicated it has not, is rust. I recently acquired one for 1800, which overall is not in as good a condition as that one appears to be. If that car's solid I'd say get it for sure, but be prepared to have to put a bit of work into it none the less.

- Peter.

__________________
2021 Chevrolet Spark
Formerly...
2000 GMC Sonoma
1981 240D 4spd stick. 347000 miles. Deceased Feb 14 2021
2002 Kia Rio. Worst crap on four wheels
1981 240D 4spd stick. 389000 miles.
1984 123 200
1979 116 280S
1972 Cadillac Sedan DeVille
1971 108 280S

If that was directed at me, sorry no. I split my time between Portland area and the North coast.

__________________
'79 240D

Assuming the ODO is accurate. But it's a 4 speed, not 5.

- Peter.

__________________
2021 Chevrolet Spark
Formerly...
2000 GMC Sonoma
1981 240D 4spd stick. 347000 miles. Deceased Feb 14 2021
2002 Kia Rio. Worst crap on four wheels
1981 240D 4spd stick. 389000 miles.
1984 123 200
1979 116 280S
1972 Cadillac Sedan DeVille
1971 108 280S

I have been communicating with the owner and feel good about his honesty. He says there are nickel size rust spots in front of each rear wheel well, but that is all. Good? No. Deal killer? Maybe not... like the colors and rest of the car seems pretty strong. He just replaced the steering column bc the key stopped working, and the clock isn't turning since. Motor sounds good and has had regular maintenance. He drives it often.

You're right, he must be counting R

Not as cool as I thought... oh well