Mercedes-Benz themselves acknowledged the W123 wasn’t a revolution, but a “thoroughly mature mid-range car.” This understated description perfectly captures the W123’s lasting impact – a car renowned for its robust construction, timeless elegance, and inherent class. Among the various models in this celebrated platform, the 1982 Mercedes 300d stands out as a particularly significant and desirable iteration, embodying the best of W123 engineering and design.
The W123 generation, launched in 1976, arrived as a sophisticated successor to the W114 and W115 “Stroke Eight” models, which were already Mercedes’ most successful passenger cars. Taking design cues from the contemporary S-Class, the W123 presented a modern aesthetic, moving away from the more traditional styling of its predecessors. It boasted a longer wheelbase, wider track, and increased overall size, offering a more substantial and comfortable ride. Initially available as a four-door sedan and a stylish coupe, the range expanded in 1978 with the introduction of the 300TD station wagon – Mercedes-Benz’s first foray into the wagon market. The W123’s popularity was immediate and overwhelming, leading to substantial waiting lists and even a premium on the black market for those seeking immediate access to these sought-after vehicles. The “touring,” as Mercedes called the station wagon, faced backlogs stretching up to three years by the 1980s, a testament to its desirability and Mercedes’ pioneering role in the luxury station wagon segment.
For the American market, the W123 was offered in all three body styles, albeit with a curated selection of engines due to stricter emissions regulations. Mercedes’ naming convention was logical: numbers denoted engine displacement in liters, and letters indicated body style and fuel type. “D” signified Diesel, “E” for fuel injection, “T” for touring (station wagon), and “C” for coupe. The 300D, powered by a 3.0-liter inline 5-cylinder diesel engine, became a cornerstone of the lineup. Crucially, 1981 saw the introduction of a turbocharged version of the 300D engine, further enhancing its appeal. The top petrol models were the 280E and 280CE, featuring 2.8-liter inline-six fuel-injected engines producing a respectable 142 horsepower.
The 1982 model year marked a pivotal update for the W123, bringing significant enhancements that further solidified its position as a class-leading vehicle. All 1982 W123 models received rectangular broadband headlights, giving the car a more modern and refined front appearance. Power steering, previously an option, became standard across the entire range, improving handling and driver comfort, especially in urban environments. Furthermore, the 1982 W123 offered optional anti-lock brakes (ABS) and even an optional airbag, showcasing Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to safety innovation during this era. These advancements made the 1982 Mercedes 300D not just a stylish and reliable car, but also one at the forefront of automotive safety technology.
Beyond the facelift and feature upgrades, the heart of the 1982 Mercedes 300D was its legendary OM617 3.0-liter inline 5-cylinder diesel engine. While not overtly powerful, this engine is celebrated for its exceptional durability and longevity. It is frequently cited as one of the most reliable engines ever manufactured by Mercedes-Benz, and indeed, in the automotive world. This robust diesel engine, combined with the W123’s over-engineered construction, contributed to the car’s reputation for near-indestructibility. Even today, many 1982 Mercedes 300Ds are still on the road, a testament to their enduring build quality. Their popularity in demanding environments, such as being used as bush taxis in Africa enduring harsh conditions and basic maintenance, further underscores their incredible resilience.
When W123 production ceased in 1986, it had surpassed the Stroke Eight as Mercedes-Benz’s best-selling model, with over 2.5 million units sold. The 1982 Mercedes 300D, benefiting from the mid-cycle refresh and powered by the iconic OM617 diesel, represents a sweet spot in the W123 lineage. Its timeless design ensures its continued aesthetic appeal, while its legendary reliability guarantees its place as a true automotive classic. For those seeking a vintage Mercedes-Benz that combines robust engineering, classic styling, and diesel efficiency, the 1982 Mercedes 300D remains an exceptional choice, a car built to last and admired for generations.
