1984 Mercedes-Benz W123 300D review from North America

Air conditioning compressor froze up at 148.000 miles.

Starter went out at 168.00 miles.

The W123 300D Turbo-diesel is practically bullet proof. The car is put together like a tank. Solid construction, incomparable fit and finish, constructed of high grade materials, and does not exhibit any signs of aging that would normally be expected of a 20 year old car. There is no shimmy or shake in the body, no out of character vibrations, and absolutely no rattles or squeaks from the interior. It's as though the car was carved from a block of iron.

Engine has plenty of power with the turbo, and has ample amounts of torque.

Highway cruising at speeds of 70mph and up is effortless, and has handled many 500+ mile trips without trouble.

The interior is very comfortable, seats firm, but well sprung. There is ample space for four adults, and the trunk is very spacious. Windows are large, and allow for maximum viewing pleasure from inside the car. The design of the dash is quite striking, with its round air vents, timeless clean lines, and ergonomics lending to a very simple, elegant, un-cluttered, open view through the windshield.

With its high reliability record, ability to run for hundreds of thousands of miles with proper maintenance, and excellent fuel economy thanks to the diesel engine, it is perhaps better than any new car available on the market today. It's an extremely economical classic car that can be driven anywhere, and looks the part as well.