Having my mechanic check out what seems to be a nice 1980 non turbo 300D. Cosmetically, its awesome. And the price is great. But probably a dumb question for you:


Are these non turbo engines just as reliable as the turbodiesel counterparts? I see many turbos around, but not many normal 5 cylinder non turbo diesels. Are these just as good as their counterparts? Can I expect the same reliability from the engine and tranny? Any differences in the transmissions? Is this just as reliable? Thanks

Hi Kyle,cool name ,I don't believe that reliability is much of an issue between the two.IMO the turbo gives you more power but it also makes servicing more difficult,and adds the cost of a turbo if (when?)it needs repair or replacement.Both models are good cars but the later cars have better ACC systems.1981 or 82 was the first year for the turbos,Good luck with whatever you find

__________________
Democracy dies in darkness, you have to kick at the darkness till it bleeds daylight

I hear the non-turbo's are the most bulletproof and it prob has a cast iron head. These are the some of the most reliable diesels ever made. I dont know if they have much kick in the pants though...

Well, I have an 85' non-turbo thats the same engine as the early 80' diesels 617-912 (I think) and have had no troubles other than the standard diesel (oil) drips that most diesel owners have; not strange for the turbos or the NA engines. It has 210,000 miles with no major repairs except for a recent radiator (I replaced it even though it could have been fixed). They aren't as fast as the turbos, but not bad at all, though don't do any rush-hour highway merging until you get to know it a bit first. Cannot compare to other turbo diesels because I really had no problems with either, but since the lack of a turbo does make the engine simpler; there is less to break and that could make it more reliable! Also less motor output power means less stress on moving motor parts. The head is cast iron.

I believe that the transmissions are similar, though I'd bet the turbo engines would create more transmission fluid heat due to the greater power. Only other differnce is that the turbos came standard with a tack (I believe), and mine wasn't offered with one. My only regret!

ATLD

You won't be sorry.

Bulletproof.

The engineering simplicity of the 5 cyl non-turbo is a thing of beauty.

Except for the ACC and door locks, the car is an overengineered, running fool.

JCD