When it comes to collecting a car that was both produced in large quantities and has a reputation for being incredibly long-lived, you have to start splitting hairs to find the standout example. Obviously, there are the ones that are kept in concours-grade condition, both mechanically and cosmetically, that will achieve high marks with collectors, but then there’s also the ones that have a feature or two most cars didn’t come with. The W123-chassis Mercedes-Benz is a model that has hung around for years, and this black-on-black example is worth a look for its rare interior color scheme. Find it here on eBay with bids to $6,000 and the reserve unmet.
Now, the seller is more focused on the 300TD selling on the basis of its mechanical health, which is certainly what most buyers will be concerned with, too. But I can’t help but notice most every W123 comes with a tan or camel-colored MBTex interior. Black on black just isn’t a frequent occurrence when looking at possible examples to buy, and regardless of make or model, black on black is a sought-after color combo. The seller does note, however, that the rear seat headrests are missing as is the rear-facing third row – both of which are a bummer.
The 300TD also has a nicely preserved body despite living in the Northeast, and while the jack point does have some rust, the fenders and edges of the doors and rear hatch are all in excellent shape. The seller notes it was sold new at semi-famous Silver Star Motors Manhattan, and eventually made its way to him where he’s owned it on Long Island for 19 years. The other areas of rust are limited to what sound like small spots of road rash that have started to corrode but can likely be fixed up with light sanding and some touch-up paint.
Despite being in his possession for 19 years, the listing indicates that it was parked and stagnant for a few years. The seller has since had the gas tank removed and cleaned, installed new tires, and replaced the battery. He claims this represents $3,000 of maintenance work, but I would that dollar total also included fresh fluids and perhaps even a water pump. The mileage isn’t awful for a W123 – 206,500 – but that’s also a point at which other components are likely to fail. No matter what, a W123 wagon is a classic that is likely to be appreciated for decades to come.
The best 3 pointed star product.
Based on my experience driving my Dad’s 300 – drives like a luxury tank and was super reliable. 200K miles = plenty of life left.
While i loved my 85 wagon and how the doors shut with authority. And yes love the 5 cyl diesel, The 603 wagon is a huge improvement, no the doors dont shut with the same authority. But its a big safe wagon, more power. To me the best no Computer simple Engine.
Any black black benz is special, great rigs
I own a Silver nitrocellulose lacquer painted 84 300TD with 296,000 G miles on it. Now, stored in the sun- the clear coat is finally failing. Yet, it runs like a top, and I have rebuilt every failed CA pollution control item on the engine. Not even the Guru of all diesel Mercedes, Mercedes Source.com is aware of the special CA dedicated pollution controls fitted. Yes, I am as concerned about air pollution, yet also that the Vacuum on these cars supports transmission shifting, door locks, ignition switch, engine shut off, and all Pollution control. Vacuum management on these cars is essential. False transmission failure can be ascribed to vacuum leaks. At this age- it needs to be taken care of.
I have owned almost a dozen of these cars over the years. Super reliable, great fuel economy, sit in it for 12 hours and 600 miles and don’t feel like you are worn out when you get there. I used several as Rep cars and would log 120k/yr and the car didn’t blink. The only downside to them is the getting into north east traffic from a near standing still position without getting hit. 0-65 is an eternity.
Beautiful looking car. IMHO, this is the best looking car Mercedes-Benz offered. Given the cost of Diesel fuel, this would cost less to fuel than much larger diesel powered vehicles.
‘my car’ (called ‘wagonman’ round here) this is my ultimate. Closest I ever got was the wolwo waggy, a step up from there.