1983 Mercedes-Benz 300DT

Funnily enough, the W123 shares the same engines, steering system, and suspension system as its predecessors. However, design changed dramatically. All the lights on the car were revised and improved, pull-to-open door handles were added, the instrument panel became larger, and dual climate control made its debut. The engine in this 300D is the notorious, OM617. This 3.0L straight-5 turbo diesel engine is widely considered to be one of the most reliable and durable engines ever created. OM617s regularly reached 1,000,000 kilometers or 620,000 miles without ever needing a rebuild.

The anthracite exterior to this 300D is clean, but not without flaws. There are three sizable stains on the passenger side of the hood. They seem to stem from the passenger side windshield sprayer, although how this could have happened is unclear. The roof’s clearcoat seems to be having issues as well with weather marks appearing in several areas. Other than these two areas, the paint around the car is fine. All of the glass looks clean and free of chips or cracks. However, there are cracks in the tires, but there also appears to be a decent amount of tread left on each of them.

This 300D’s interior is solid, but there are some problem areas. The leather on all four door panels is somewhat loose. Most of the leather in the car would benefit greatly from a deep cleaning. The driver’s seat shows signs of weathering, and the leather is just barely beginning to crack in driver’s seat. The front passenger seat is slightly discolored in some areas, but the leather itself shows no holes or tears. The floormats are filthy, and the carpets beneath them look fairly dirty as well. There are five small scratches in the dash pad in front of the passenger seat, which might be an area to keep an eye on going forward. Furthermore, the glovebox door does not fit neatly into its space. The steering wheel is clean, and the gauges are all clean and easily readable. The wood trim in the center console is cracking in some areas, especially below the shifter, but it is difficult to notice. Overall, this interior is in good condition, but some deep cleaning and attention to detail could easily elevate this car’s quality.

We are happy to report that the underside of this Mercedes is clean. Everything looks to be in order, and it is obvious that this car is not hiding any major damage underneath. The exhaust does exhibit some discoloration but that is completely normal. The engine bay could use a power wash, but there are no signs of any major corrosion taking place.

The car was purchased by the seller brand new in 1983 and thus is a single owner car. In almost 40 years of ownership, the car has only racked up 136,814 miles. It has been well kept in Memphis, TN the entire time.

The W123 generation of Mercedes-Benz automobiles has a legendary reputation in the automotive world thank to their build quality. The OM617 is equally legendary due to its reliability. Mercedes 300Ds like the one we have today are often described as ‘bulletproof.’ This specific example is not perfect, but it would make an excellent first car for a young driver or would be a simple restoration project for the amateur restorer. Regardless of what the winner chooses to do with it, this Merc is ready to ride.

The Market by Bonhams is excited to offer this Mercedes-Benz 300D for online auction with no reserve with an estimate of $10,000-$20,000.