Looking for first MB

[CharlieC]

I need some advice. I am looking to buy an older model diesel powered Mercedes. I have driven the Japanese diesels for years and am quite satisfied with the durability and economy, but now I would like to have some comfort to go along with it. That is why I am looking at the Mercedes line of cars. This would be a family car as well as a daily driver. I have seen several advertised for what seems like a ridiculously low prices. I guess what I would like to know is what should I look for, what should I stay away from, and how many miles is too many. I understand that maintenance plays a critical role in longevity but some general information would be helpful. The ads that I have been looking at are early 80's models, 4-dr diesel. I know these questions are very general in nature but if someone could help me get started with my search then I can get more specific. Thanks for the help.

 

[Keith]

merc diesels

I only can speak for my experience of my late ('95) W124 diesel which I love to bits. Basically its totally over engineered and just runs and runs. Due to the fact that so many merc diesels serve as taxis all over the world I reckon that proves the durability and also increases the prospect of getting parts for a long time. I plan to keep mine until it drops say around 500k miles (its currently on a mere 145k so quite a baby). Also (unlike Jap cars ) the bodies on older mercs (not the new ones) seem to go on for ever too. After nearly 9 years there is not so much as a faint squeek in the car. I have owned other supposed quality makes and have always had some rattle or squeek after about 50k miles. I also need mine for family so have an Estate which i also pile stuff on the roof of and use to tow boats. One really good thing about the estates (if you go for one) is that they all have self levelling suspension which even on volvos is an optional extra. This means no matter how much you pile in the car always sits level. Again very over engineered for most people but great for the work load I put on mine.

When I look at what else I could get for what mine is worth (about £7k) nothing comes close. i would be looking at say a 2 year old volvo for £20k in my view to get a comparable machine but I bet mine will last longer even so.

A very satisfied diesel man

hope this helps
K

 

[dieselman]

Other than general car problems you should check the timing chain on four cylinder MB diesels. Often they are single row chains and these do wear, and can in extreme cases of wear, snap.

Obviously you need to see the car start from cold. Err thats about it.

The 240 diesel is the most reliable MB ever made, but all the diesels are capable of intergalactic mileage.

 

[CharlieC]

Thanks for the tips. Now, about performance. A 4-cyl. was mentioned and I have heard of a 5-cyl.? diesel. Could someone fill me in on what was offered in the early 80's as far as diesels go. And what kind of performance and economy could someone expect from these engines in a 4-door sedan. From what I am reading, it appears that 500K is not too much to expect if the engine has been properly maintained. How relieable are the transmissions? Being a luxury car I would expect to find an auto in most all of them. Did Mercedes even offer a standard behind a diesel transmission. Thanks again.

 

[dieselman]

Ok. I think we're talking Stateside here, right?

This was MBs biggest market for diesels in the 80s so there should be no shortage of ones to look at.

Four cylinders are 2 L and 2.4L, five cylinders are 3 L. In vey late 80s cars you may find 5 Cyl 2.5 L engines and 6cyl 3.0 L. You can easily spot these by the aluminium cylinder head instead of the cast iron found on the 3 L 5 cyl. Also the body style will change from W123 version to w124 version.

2 L + 2.4 L = slow

3 L = adequate.

later 3 L = pretty quick.