1983 Mercedes-Benz W123 300D Turbo Diesel review from North America
"Anyone who knows cars, knows that W123s Mercedes are the best!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Heat A/C controller wasn't working at purchase, but was an easy Do It Yourself fix.
Alternator was replaced after 6 months of purchase, then changed again six months later due to broken belt.
Wiper blades act up sometimes after repeated use.
General comments?
I love the ease of maintenance that diesels provide, but needed more room than my Jetta had. I searched for a year before I lucked into a lovely W123 turbo diesel. It's a grey metallic with sienna interior. Rare and beautiful, with good power, comfort and fuel economy. The seats are MB Tex and were a bit dirty, but had no rips and were restored to new condition by magic eraser. The car rides smooth and after long hours on the road leaves me feeling fine.
The quality of these vehicles is clearly evident when you are up close to it. Washing it and such lets you see and feel the craftmanship that went into it. It drives great in all weather and has conservative good looks with chrome detail that makes newer cars look cheap in comparison.
The passing power can shock other drivers too. The turbo engine and tranny are gems and the gearing is great for highway cruising or bruising.
Considering these cars had sold well all over the world, parts are easily available and fairly priced.
W123s have a first rate reputation and remain few in number today, so my car makes for a great usable daily driven collectible.
Recommended reviews
| 1983 - W123 Sedan nonturbo I5 non turbo diesel Slow, heavy, mediocre reliability, but interesting |
|
| Classic reliability that's hard to find in today's cars! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Year of manufacture | 1983 |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.0 ltr. 5 cylinder. Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 232000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 266000 miles |
| Previous car | Volkswagen Jetta |
| Date of Entry | 4th January, 2006 |