The Mercedes-Benz W123 lineup is one of the most recognizable European model lineups out there, and generally loved by enthusiasts looking for an entry into classic car ownership without breaking the bank. The gasoline- and diesel-powered vehicles are also known for being quite durable, but not necessarily beautiful; however, the coupe models change that dynamic a bit with gorgeous pillar-less styling. Find this 1980 300D two-door here on eBay with no reserve and bids to $5,611.
This is a diesel-equipped model, so you get both the striking looks of the coupe with the unkillable qualities of the diesel drivetrain. It helps that this one also wears a gorgeous shade of paint that is best described as robin’s egg blue; it helps transform it from stodgy to svelte. The seller notes this is a non-turbo model so it will be a bit pokey in terms of acceleration, but it’s not as if any of the diesel models are speed machines. More importantly, there appears to be no rust of any significance.
The interior is a bit of a let-down compared to the outside, as it shows it more wear-and-tear than expected. This could also be a case of poor sale prep work, as a detailing would likely help the seats and carpets present far better than they do here. The good news is this 300TD appears to be in near-stock condition inside and out, with what appears to be a cool, period-correct radio the only major alteration. The seller notes it has only seen use during the summer months over the last few years and stored indoors.
The engine bay reveals matching paint, which is a good sign considering the surprisingly cheerful color is a stark contract compared to most W123s that come up for grabs. I wondered if this is a respray but it’s hard to tell from this angle as it looks like it has always worn this color. The market for W123s is a bit soft at the moment but they will always be appreciated, especially in coupe form and in a great color such as this one.
This is one nice Benz. I saw these everywhere when I was in Germany but I wanted the big SEC coupe instead. Now these are appealing to me.
I’ve always been fond of this body but can’t commit to the diesel engine. Don’t care for how they sound is all. The color on this one could help me get past that. Maybe. Lol. GLWTS
I love these cars. I owned an ’84 300TD wagon, and it was the most solid car I ever owned. Closing the door sounded like you were in a vault. I had the turbo diesel. It was no race car, but it was just fine keeping up with traffic. I’d probably still own it if I didn’t have as many children as we did.
I had an 84 wagon too. ironically, I sold it to my dear friend who had an 84 300CDT
I had one also but it rusted into oblivion here in the Chicago area. My then 4 yo Daughter was playing in there while I was washing the car and slipped it into nuetral. She went right down the hill into the woods!. Nobody got hurt and the car just had a few scratches! It was before interlocking transmissions
I’ll just tell my Wife that I’m investing our money in a CD…….
The radio looks to me like the Becker Europa radio that it should have come from the factory with.
This is IMO the best design for post-war Mercedeses.
There’s a 1981 300D on the Humboldt (CA) craigslist for $4900
that appears to be in great shape.
If it’s not a turbo, then it’s not a 300TD. “T” stands for turbo-charged”.
Actually Pete, T on this stands for Transporter (wagon)
Actually the proper nominclature would be 300 td, 300cdt, 300tdthat is the turbo models pre-turbo drop the T for all models
I had a 300CD. Loved it, even if it was the slowest car I ever owned. It dripped cool and classy. I could time its 0-60 with a sundial.
I had an issue with a leaky evaporator that would have cost a king’s ransom to resolve.
I’d love another, but I will go with a turbo next time. It is still slow but not quite as much of an adventure as a non-turbo while merging onto a highway.
We’re is the car located my cell is 617 279 7294
Am surprised the seller is too cheap to pony up the $ to fix the antenna and window switches. Perhaps the sale is out of need or an estate?
I loves me some MB deisel, but non turbo?
Excellent engine swap candidate. Heck, find a 2.5 turbo from a 90-93 e series – that would rock. Ford V8’s seem to work well too, but that old non-turbo anchor is for masochists.