1983 Mercedes-Benz W123 300D review from North America
"Comfortable, svelte, athletic and extremely economical, the Mercedes Benz 300d is an excellent car"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The ball joints and tires had to be replaced at 130 thousand miles. Additionally, a full alignment was called for.
The brake pads needed to be replaced at 132 thousand miles.
The alternator needed to be replaced at approximately 140 thousand miles.
An exhaust component, between the manifold and catalytic converter, had to be replaced at 151 thousand miles.
The two fuel filters needed to be replaced at 152 thousand miles.
The original Webasto sunroof had failed before my ownership.
General comments?
512 miles on one tank of diesel fuel.
Slow yet steady, it has yet to fail me.
The wide, comfortable cabin is supported by excellent materials.
The dashboard is very ergonomically correct, yet the radio is placed rather low.
The wide diameter, thick, steering wheel is a refreshing departure for a car.
The antiquated seat architecture (springs and horsehair) has caused the passenger's to cave in. The remaining four positions are remarkably comfortable.
The excellent chassis is let down by the less than robust engine. This car handles well, and is very steady on the interstate.
Cruising at eighty miles per hour is possible, yet somewhat taxing on the car, after hours of use.
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| 1982 - W123 300D TurboDiesel 5 cylinder turbo diesel I don't drive my other two cars anymore! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1983 |
| Year of manufacture | 1983 |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.0 diesel Automatic |
| Performance marks | 5 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 128000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 152000 miles |
| Previous car | Volvo 240 |
| Date of Entry | 12th May, 2005 |