If you want a sure-fire way to make a W123-chassis Mercedes-Benz more attractive, delete two doors. The coupe-bodied Benzes are a fair bit prettier than its sedan counterpart, especially with the disappearing B-pillar that helps to create a truly open-air experience. The 300CD is fairly low mileage by Mercedes diesel standards, with just 66,600 miles on the clock. Listed here on craigslist in Reno, the seller is asking a reasonable $9,000.
Thanks to Barn Finds reader Todd K. for the find. The 300CD is a non-turbo diesel model, which isn’t exactly a selling point – but it’s not a detraction, either. The turbodiesel models do help kick performance up a notch to make for a more compelling drive, but it’s not as if either model is particularly fast. Turbo or not, the driving experience was more focused on steady progress and years’ of reliable operation. And with under 70,000 miles, there is tons of of life left in this two-door example.
The W123 interiors were already known for being incredibly durable but when you find MBTex in a low-mileage car, the results speak for themselves. This interior appears to be in outstanding condition, with no signs of excessive wear and tear. Low mileage is not necessarily a guarantee of good cosmetics, but this 300CD is clearly a case of limited use leading to a high state of preservation. Despite being in Nevada, the wood trim and upholstery don’t appear to be cracked and dried out.
W123s typically have a loyal following among Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts, so it’s not surprising to see a car like this in such outstanding condition. When you know that for a relatively modest amount of annual maintenance, your car is going to return years’ worth of loyal service deep into the six-figures on the odometer, well – it’s not surprising to see a well-loved example like this 300CD. The seller is asking reasonable money for what looks like a real-deal survivor, so I doubt it will last long.
Steady progress and years of reliability are the exact word that apply here. I’m always more a fan of four doors but this one is absolutely beautifull. The interior is plainly wow and the whole car has been lovingly maintained. I’ m always weary when a car gets past the 40 years mark if certain trim,engine or certain parts break that you can’t just waltz in you corner MB dealer and expect stuff to be still avail. I’ guessing that there must be a loyal following for these as much as there is for just about any american muscle cars. 9 G’s is a steal and it should have a loving home real soon
Slow as a slug but beautiful.
Beautiful and a rare survivor. Slow indeed and it would be a long slow slog over the hill from Reno but it would do just fine over here in the valley. Great writeup, thanks!
Not my first powertrain choice but the condition and price should make this a quick mover to the next owner. The coupe version of the W123 series is timeless beauty. I just picked up a white 88 300CE that I will bring back to her former glory and make my next daily. A classic Mercedes is like most things in life you take for granted until they are no more. Parts are getting harder to source and Mercedes parts are becoming NLA but I’m still amazed that I can order a part from a dealer for a car over 35 years old. If you are in the trade you will know what I mean.
is this the era that ended “the hand made” MBs?
I’d go for it w/the bent8 gasser (I think here we have the 5 cyl OM617 – the “million mi motor”) as it looks a bit sporty/mights well be.
One of my all time 5 or so is the 300TDI/automatic. I cant think of a better wagon to have. I’d strip out all but driver’s seat (I’m almost 100% solo) line w/ply’n tie dwn hooks/straps & B quite happy. I commute 30 mi & buzz around an extra 30/d. The Y/M/M is a lill out of reach for me now, tho.