general information - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

#1 09-03-2002, 03:12 PM

I'm looking for pros and cons between W123 300D and W126 300SD. I can't decide which one I want. I do most of my own mechanical work. Thanks for the great forum.

190D22 · #2 09-03-2002, 04:00 PM

123s are the dime a dozen E class of the 70s and 80s. The 126 are the S class, more luxurious, bigger cars of about the same time period. 123 is a more simple car mechanically and electronically compared to the 126. The better comparison with this are the 116 (S class before 126) and 123. I like the 126 over 116 and 123 because they are more modern and ultimately more comfortable. Most likely will give you more expensive problems due to greater complexity. But any chassis you buy you're going to sink cash into and blood and sweat, since you're the DIY.

Bottom line, no matter what choice you make (123, 124, 116, 126, 140, 201, 202, etc) you're going to get a great car. They're all mercedes!

franklyspeaking · #3 09-03-2002, 04:01 PM

Since the engine and drive train are essentially the same, I would think that your preference toward enhanced creature comforts should drive the decision. Of course with the creature comforts of the SD come the added complexity (ie. power seats, and other comforts are prone to break...leather seats tend to wear faster than MB Tex, etc.). The SD's being a bit heavier may give you more safety.

I personally like simplicity and therefore drive the 240D, which is the ultimate in simplicity.

My $.02 worth.

#4 09-03-2002, 04:05 PM

If you want a simple, easier to maintain machine get the 300D. It has less gizmos than the 300D, and is extremely reliable althought not as bulletproof and utilitarian as the 240D. The 300D has more creature comforts than the 240D. The 300SD, on the other hand, is longer, heavier, and commands more of a "Big Benz" presence than either the 240D or the 300D. It may also have many more great options, but with the risk of them going wrong. If you want luxury and reliability, 300SD. IF you want a touch of luxury, but more reliability get the 300D. The engines are both bulletrproof for the most part but the options and what have you are more complex with a 300SD

leathermang · #5 09-03-2002, 08:58 PM

Amen, I could not resist putting a third 240d manual in a row in this discussion.... simpler is better....

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1980 manual 4 speed, manual ac, manual windows, no sunroof

Holson Adi · #6 09-03-2002, 09:22 PM

When I was shopping for a diesel I didn't care. I mean I was happy to buy just about any MB diesel except for the W140 diesels (costs to maintain).

However I was quite particular to the 201 190D's 123, 116, and 126 OM617 diesels

and of course the 240D!

But I did end up finding the coupe which was a bonus since I have always wanted the coupe (ever since I first saw one.. didn't quite know if it was factory)

Buy the best example.. that's what I would do. Shop around and the one in the best condition (with FSH, new parts, etc.) will be the nicest no matter what.

They're all great cars. I haven't been in an SD but I bet it's a much nicer car than my 123.