1985 Mercedes-Benz W123 300TD review from North America

For a 15 year old car, it has done quite well. But here is a list anyhow of major problems.

The hydroneumatic pump that lifts the tail end of the car upon added weight had to be replaced.

The master brake cylinder froze on the highway locking the brakes.

The A-frame on the left rear wheel snapped right along the weld line causing the wheel to tilt into the wheel well rendering the car undriveable (very unusual occurence).

Many things in the engine have been replaced - hoses, lines, oil compressor, a new AC system with the new type of freon retrofitted ($900), etc. She is now going on 210,000 miles on the original engine with outstanding acceleration and smooth transmission.

I just recently had to replace both of the rear window regulators. One got so bent after 15 years of lifting the heavy glass that when I lowered the window, it shattered.

Please e-mail me - estarr@starmail.com

Peyton, my 300TD, has been an outstanding car. Some noteworthy things about this particular car of mine. It is certified as the 'last of the line' W123 wagon to be produced and shipped to the USA. It is a beautiful original black with tan vinyl interior, sunroof, 3 rear headrests, 3rd seat with shoulder belts. Cosmetically, the car is in excellent shape, almost immaculate. The wheels have been repainted to the original astral silver based alloy paint

Things I would like to do to the car:

Replace the rear struts that hold the tailgate up when opened. It stays up most of the time, but sometimes falls on your back - unpleasant surprise.

Replace some springs in the drivers seat which leans slightly down to the left. The rear seats are floppy and sink down. They too could use springs and padding.