1985 Mercedes-Benz W123 300 CD review from North America

After purchasing I gave the car a complete service, set the valve clearances, changed the transmission oil and filter, engine oil, replaced all the belts, and filters, replaced the discs and front pads, and greased the front wheel bearings.

Sunroof failed to open or close. Pulled the electrical plug on the sunroof motor and found power. Removed, stripped and cleaned the motor and everything now works fine.

When I first got the car, I was disappointed by both the performance and the harsh shift. I also had no cruise control or tachometer. After looking under the hood, I noticed a bunch of wires attached to a large round spade connector that had fallen down inside the bodywork by the battery. I found that this connector could only reach (and be secured by) the bolt holding the battery earth strap to the chassis... Reattached the spade and suddenly I had a tachometer and my cruise worked. Better yet, suddenly the car went like a missile and shifted oh so smooth... The cheapest car repair I have ever done!

Looking though the receipts, I found that the battery was replaced a couple of years prior to my purchase. I guess the wires were dislodged and not reattached. I can only assume that the car was on some kind of "limp mode"..

This is my third Benz and I don't think that the spares prices are over the top. The quality of the replacement parts is usually outstanding.

Two door coupe, only 8500 made, 1000 in the final year of production (1985). Bought the car in Vancouver, BC. It had been diligently looked after by the elderly second owner for many years and came with a pile of receipts to prove it. Oil was changed every 5000 kms, though I am not sure that the independent dealer was very good at other items. I guess even regular servicing can be of limited value.

Lovely burgundy colour with cream MBTex interior. Unmarked in almost all respects, low mileage, all documented, engine bay spotless. The coupe is pillarless, so with the large sunroof open and all the windows down it's almost like driving a convertible.

Diesel mileage is great, 36 miles per gallon in town and 42 miles per gallon on the highway. I met another '85 300D owner who had exactly the same numbers for fuel consumption, so I guess that this is right for the model.

Just a joy to drive and own. Coupe is slightly lowered compared to the four door so has a nice stance on the road. Doors close like shutting a safe. Handling and brakes are good, turning circle is great. Seats are very comfy and the interior looks brand new. Tons of glass and a cream interior makes the inside very bright and inviting. Cream carpets always clean up like new and look very luxurious. The car always gets comments, and is a restful, relaxing drive.

I can't think of anything I'd want to change about the vehicle, and I wouldn't hesitate to jump in it and drive across Canada.

In my opinion the 123 and 124 body styles were probably the last of the truly great Benz's. A car built by engineers and not the marketing department.