1981 Mercedes-Benz W123 300D review from North America

The previous owner left the car in a garage since 1995 and rarely drove it. I had to change the sway bar linkages (both front and back) and all tie rod end components because the rubber had dry rot and was totally cracked.

I ran over some road debris, a large piece of concrete, so I had to change the oil pan and a transmission cooler line.

It had a small leak in the radiator when I got it.

Local diesel fuels are rather dirty so I have to change the fuel filters with the oil.

The original paper speakers were rotten, but easily replaced.

Easy to work on in most every case. It has a lot of room on either side of the engine. However, there are many sharp edges that will leave your hands and arms shredded if you aren't careful.

It handles like a dream with the new steering components. The steering wheel turns easily with one finger even on sharper curves.

It is a little sluggish as far as acceleration goes. However, I cleaned some gunk out of the oil pan and the pickup nearly doubled. It is excellent for a 2 ton diesel though and has a top speed around 120 mile per hour.

With regular maintenance I have gotten the car up to 30 miles per gallon.

The interior is roomy for a car and is extremely comfortable.

If you're lucky enough to find an original Becker radio in one, you'll get in radio stations from nearby states.

Once I finished repairing the original damages, I have only needed to perform routine maintenance. It seems to take at least ten years for anything to wear out.

I had to do some adjustments to the climate control, but it now forms ice on the windows in 90F degree weather and can make anyone sweat after about two minutes even below the freezing point.