1985 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 300sd 3.0 turbo diesel from North America

Summary:

A luxury tank that will outlast its owner

Faults:

I bought the car with leaking fuel injection pump plungers for $100. I replaced these.

On a trip to Vero beach, Florida, my power steering pump belt sawed through an oil line. I fixed this, but the motor lived.

The car has a host of electrical problems, but all the necesities work.

It has some body rust, but nothing that is too bad.

This car will take me anywhere, and for a car with the 300,000 miles, it still runs like new.

General Comments:

This car handles well, and has good pick up for a diesel-engined vehicle. it is very solid and was a great buy for the money.

I still like my 1974 240d better.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 14th June, 2003

1985 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 300SD 3.0 turbo diesel from North America

Summary:

The 126 bodies (300SD, 300SE, etc. . .) are an underrated opportunity to get a great Mercedes cheap!

Faults:

The rear end of the car was hit when owned by the previous owner. The rear bumper was removed for repair and the rear was painted, including the quarter panels. Unfortunately the repair shop painted over the trunk vent flaps. These flaps prevent the natural circulation of air in from out side the rear of the vehicle into the trunk. They are important in that they prevent exhaust from getting sucked in. The car was covered with soot throughout on the inside, requiring extensive cleaning. These flaps too easily fail, yet are critical to clean breathing air. I have ordered replacements for $15.95 each.

The cruise control does not work well at 65 MPH. At this speed the engine is at approximately 2,500 revolutions per minute - which is were the turbocharger usually kicks in. When the turbocharger kicks in the car lurches up to about 68-69 MPH which causes the cruise control to stop providing fuel. The car then drops down to about 63 MPH, which causes the cruise control to add fuel, which causes the turbocharger to kick in, etc...

The rear windows have failed. I suspect the lifters are in need of replacement.

General Comments:

The car had been poorly maintained for many years. The paint had faded severely, yet with a new buffing machine, rubbing compound, and a little elbow grease the paint looks almost new!

Great mileage for a 3,700 pound car - 25 miles per gallon!

Early acceleration is slow, up to about 20 MPH. After that it picks up okay like a gasoline car.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 7th June, 2002