While looking on E-Bay, I have noticed that the left front fender well areas on the 81-85 300SD's look different. Some of them have a lot of different things in that area- while others have not much of anything. Some have about 1/2 of the amount of items as others. Mostly looks like boxes and hoses. Seems like the 85 has the most. Perhaps something to do with ABS? Does anyone know what all of this is? Not a big deal, but just wondering.

the 85 came with ABS and i beleive it could also come with airbags as an option. Additionally, the 85 also had the outside temp sensor, and i beleive memory driver seat. The EGR may be a little differant too, although i'm not sure on that one.
Ryan

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83 300SD.......sold
96 integra SE....sold
99 a4 quattro....sold
2001 IS300.......sold
2002 330i.........current.
2004 highlander limited....current.

EGR should be the same as previous years.

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1985 300D Turbo ~225k
2000 F350 (Powerstroke) 4X4, SWB, CC, SRW, 6spd ~148k
1999 International 4900, DT466e (250hp/660 ft/lbs), Allison MD3060 ~73k

My '84 has outside temp, but no ABS or airbag.

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past MB rides:
'68 220D
'68 220D(another one)
'67 230
'84 SD
Current rides:
'06 Lexus RX330
'93 Ford F-250
'96 Corvette
'99 Polaris 700 RMK sled
2011 Polaris Assault
'86 Yamaha TT350(good 'ol thumper)

Thanks.

I think the outside temperature display was added in 1983 or 1984. 84' I think. Airbag became optional in 1984. I think ABS was first offered in 1985, but perhaps 1984.

The 84 300SD I am considering buying has the airbag option.

The items on those driverside wheel wells looks like something to do with the engine. Perhaps ABS is some of that- but I noticed a LOT of extra hoses/wires on a certain 85' 300SD than another 84' 300SD.

Up to 83 the tach amp is behind the left headlight. From 84 it's... well, I don't know where it is, but it's not behind the left headlight.

Sixto
95 S420
91 300SE
87 300SDL
83 300SD