For those in the know, the 1987 Mercedes 300D represents a sweet spot in the marque’s history. It’s a car that often sparks debate, but from an enthusiast’s perspective, this model offers a compelling blend of classic Mercedes virtues with a touch of modern refinement. Stepping up from the older W123 series with their OM617 engines, the ’87 300D, part of the W124 family and powered by the OM603, marked Mercedes-Benz’s entry into the “modern” diesel era. Its design language became a benchmark, widely imitated and still possessing a fresh appeal today. Owners frequently report fuel economy figures around 25 mpg in urban environments and closer to 30 mpg on longer journeys, although individual results may vary.
The Appeal of the 1987 Mercedes 300D
The 1987 300D isn’t just about fuel efficiency; it’s about the driving experience. Compared to its W123 predecessors, the W124 chassis offers noticeably improved handling and a more powerful engine. This translates to a more engaging and less ponderous drive, making it suitable for modern roads while retaining that classic Mercedes solid feel. The W124’s design, launched in Germany with petrol models in 1985 and arriving in the US in 1986, was truly ahead of its time. The ’87 300D inherited this timeless aesthetic, which continues to look contemporary even decades later. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of understated, functional design.
Under the Hood: The OM603 Engine and What to Watch For
1987 was the year the OM603 diesel engine debuted in the W124 for the US market. This engine, while a step forward in performance and efficiency, does come with a caveat. Its alloy cylinder head, in contrast to the iron heads of older engines, is more vulnerable to cracking if overheating occurs. While Mercedes-Benz addressed this issue with improved head and head gasket designs in later iterations (identified by part numbers ending in “17”, “20”, and “22”, succeeding the original “14” head), vigilance is key. Keeping a close eye on the coolant temperature gauge and avoiding pushing the car if it begins to overheat is crucial. While a #14 head shouldn’t necessarily be a deal-breaker, opting for a later version is advisable if possible, and a #14 head could be leveraged during price negotiations. Personal experience suggests that with a well-maintained cooling system, the original head can perform reliably.
Interestingly, Mercedes-Benz discontinued the OM603 engine after the 1987 model year for the US market. The reasons remain somewhat unclear, speculated to be linked to the head issues or increasingly stringent emissions regulations. Subsequent W124 diesel models featured the 5-cylinder OM602 turbodiesel around 1990, and the final W124s in 1995 utilized the OM606 6-cylinder naturally aspirated engine. It’s also worth noting that the W124 generation saw a gradual increase in electronic components over its lifespan. Therefore, earlier models like the 1987 300D are generally simpler and potentially easier to maintain for DIY enthusiasts.
Potential Problem Areas and Maintenance Considerations
Prospective buyers of a 1987 Mercedes 300D should be aware of certain common issues that can be costly to rectify if neglected. These include cracked cylinder heads or blown head gaskets (a consequence of the aforementioned alloy head sensitivity), suspension problems (often concealed and expensive to address), climate control system malfunctions (often deceptively described as simply needing a recharge), and sunroof issues (the W124 pioneered the slide/tilt sunroof, which had early design weaknesses). These repairs can individually amount to significant expenses. Cruise control failure is another relatively frequent issue, although typically less expensive to repair.
However, ownership isn’t all about potential pitfalls. Many aspects of the 1987 300D are within the scope of competent DIY maintenance, particularly for owners willing to source parts from reputable suppliers. Certain suspension and climate control components can be tackled at home, offering considerable savings. While sunroof repairs might be best left to professionals, basic maintenance tasks such as oil changes, fuel filter replacements, glow plug replacements, and minor electrical repairs are achievable for the home mechanic.
Parts Availability and Modern Features
The increasing presence of W124 petrol models (300E) in breakers’ yards is good news for 1987 300D owners. Sharing the same body shell, these petrol models provide a readily available and cost-effective source of body panels, interior trim, and various components.
The W124 chassis represented a step up in terms of “creature comforts” compared to earlier Mercedes models. The 1987 300D boasts features like ABS, a driver’s side airbag, power seats with driver’s memory, and retractable rear headrests – features considered advanced for its era.
Ultimately, owning a classic like the 1987 Mercedes 300D comes down to personal aptitude and willingness for maintenance. If you rely solely on professional garages and main dealer parts, costs can escalate quickly, reinforcing the adage that there’s no such thing as a “cheap” Mercedes. However, embracing DIY maintenance can significantly reduce running costs.
Transmission and Final Advice
The 1987 300D utilizes the reliable 722.4 4-speed mechanical automatic transmission, also found in late W123 models. This robust transmission is known for longevity, often exceeding 200,000 miles before requiring attention. While overhauling this transmission is comparable in cost to other automatics, it’s generally not a DIY undertaking for most owners.
Extensive information on the 1987 Mercedes 300D and W124 models is readily accessible through online forums and enthusiast communities. Prior to purchasing any example, a professional inspection is highly recommended. A pre-purchase inspection is a relatively small investment that can potentially save thousands in unforeseen repair bills – a lesson learned by many the hard way.
