Sometimes a car comes along of which I feel totally unworthy. Such is the case with this one-owner, impossibly mint 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300D for sale in Portugal. Looking quite sharp in its white over blue combination, you’d be easily mistaken to think this car was a restoration job. But it isn’t. This 300D is a survivor. And when one talks about the W123, survivor is quite an apt term, because these cars will simply go on and on and on…
CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300D at Cool & Vintage
Year: 1982
Model: 300D
Engine: 3.0 liter inline-5 diesel
Transmission: 4-speed manual
Mileage: 33,000 km (~ 20,505 mi)
Price: €16,500 (~ $18,431 USD)
IF YOU’RE GOING THE DISTANCE YOU NEED ONE OF THESE
Few cars in the world have the reputation of the w123 regarding reliability. In fact it’s as smooth as any modern car, with possibly even better ride comfort because of the soft suspension. Approaching a corner, the initial body roll is alarming but while it’s no sports car the Mercedes is sure-footed. The bodyshell is high tensile steel but it’s not that heavyMore than 2.4 million W123 models were produced worldwide between 1975 and 1986, still you never get to see one quite like this. What’s the difference between this and any other lovingly restored classic car? For starters, it has not been restored. No matter how well restored, no one can replicate the history and special feel of a factory-fresh Mercedes-Benz from this period. This one is a 33.000Km from new, one owner 300D. Very much the same feeling as buying one new in 1982 at a Mercedes dealer
In the past few years, the dollar has gained a bit more parity with the euro, making it easier for US based enthusiasts to drink from the well of pre-1992 classics. The price for this W123 is quite reasonable, which may speak a bit to the depressed Portuguese economy, but regardless, it’s not every day that you see a 300D equipped with a manual gearbox. Especially one in such great shape. This car is a shining example of everything I hate in the modern motor vehicle. They lack the style, substance and most of all, durability of a car like this.
-Paul
Holy crap that’s low mileage, especially for a car that will literally last forever if maintained.
A friend said his 300td was a lemon. I send him links to these w123 diesel articles and he says “no no no.”
This is a beautiful example of a timeless design. No frills, double headlights, nice balance. Wish it was a turbo.