Diesel RVs: Re: [diesel_mercedes] Help picking out a diesel w123 or w124 for daily commuter

That makes me paranoid as well -- I would think that this is a perfect car for the teenage son as well. And less hassle for the dad, certainly than buying a new car, selling this one, going to the DMV, getting insurance, getting plates, etc.

It does seem a bit off…

On Dec 19, 2012, at 3:47 PM, audiolaw@aol.com wrote:

    The listing says that the guy wants to sell the car so he can buy a car for his teenage son. Why doesn't he want to just give his son that car? How many teens get to drive a Mercedes? Particularly one that "is in great shape"?

    Maybe I'm just too paranoid.

    The early 90s, if I recall, were part of the time when Mercedes was having some quality control issues, from spreading manpower too thin while trying to resurrect Chrysler.

    Any Mercedes is a marvel of engineering, and probably workable for anyone with basic mechanical knowledge. But if you are thinking that you will "learn basic mechanical work" you should be aware that you may also learn the constant lesson that "the most expensive car you can ever own is a "cheap" Mercedes." These really ARE economical cars - but only if you do the necessary work yourself. If you have to hire the work done, 'good by wallet'.

    BUT, if you have the discipline to actually do the learning and the work, and if you have a garage to work in and a basic metric tool kit, such a car could be a wonderful ride, an enjoyable project on rainy weekends, and very economical over the long run.

In a message dated 12/19/2012 11:50:13 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, danvprod@gmail.com writes:

Hi Folks --

Looking forward to your help. Here is my situation. I am currently driving a 2003 Honda Element with 125k. I am looking to acquire either a w123 300d Turbo or w124 300d 2.5 turbo diesel to become my daily commuter to and from work.

My Honda has been slowly having more problem and now the exhaust manifold has a crack and is leaking.

The desire for the diesel mercedes is twofold -- one for a reliable daily commuter and two for an engine where I can learn basic mechanical work on an engine that is approachable (with a good online community, parts available and training videos).

I plan on phasing my Honda out while phasing the Mercedes in.

This was one of the cars I was looking at:
http://raleigh.craigslist.org/cto/3487746380.html

I did test drive someone's 1985 300d turbo, but the condition was a bit rough and there was some rust (I know to stay away if I see any rust.

Anyways, I don't really know where to start -- only that I am gravitating towards one of these 300d models. Any advice or help would be much appreciated.