During the production run of the Mercedes-Benz “W123” 300 series, the market wasn’t exactly lacking in wagon options. However, Mercedes-Benz identified a specific niche early on. The North American wagon market was filled with offerings from almost every manufacturer, notably excluding Cadillac and Lincoln. While alternatives like a Buick Regal wagon with a diesel engine offered comparable luxury on paper, they often lacked the inherent build quality synonymous with the W123 Estate. The same held true for Mercury and other competitors; they could provide a wagon, but not the Mercedes-Benz experience. Mercedes-Benz represented inherent luxury, while others seemed to offer it as an add-on.
The Mercedes 300 Td Estate presented an intriguing proposition in the 1980s. Renowned for luxury, Mercedes-Benz catered to a spectrum of budgets. This 1983 300TD sat at the pinnacle, boasting an inline 5-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine. This engine was celebrated for its seemingly endless torque and unparalleled reliability. Stepping into a 300TD today, you might not mistake it for a modern performance car, but it’s far from sluggish. The turbocharger delivers a robust pull in its low torque band, creating the impression of swift acceleration, even if real-world pace might be more leisurely.
Old Mercedes-Benz vehicles were also known for their exceptional interior design. Even now, the W123 interior retains a pleasing ambiance. The MB-Tex vinyl upholstery, covering the ergonomically designed seating, is remarkably durable. The elegantly sculpted dashboard reflects a design era where curves were embraced. If there’s a point of critique regarding the interior, it might be Mercedes’ sometimes questionable use of wood veneer. In our test car, nearing 40 years old, the wood trim displayed signs of wear, with splitting and distortion detracting from its appeal.
Settling behind the wheel of this classic wagon evokes a distinct sense of presence. Its substantial size ensures it’s noticed on the road, a benefit in an age of distracted driving. Moreover, the robust construction provides a reassuring sense of safety. Mercedes-Benz integrated advanced safety features for its time into the wagon. A driver’s airbag was optional, and European models even offered one for the front passenger. The adjustable “town and country” horn effectively commands attention, and the substantial doors are more than just for show; they contribute to the car’s overall safety.
I’ve long advocated for using dependable classic vehicles as daily drivers, instead of incurring the expense of a modern car with potentially questionable long-term reliability. The Mercedes-Benz W123 chassis is an excellent candidate for daily use. This particular 300TD example excels due to its inherent durability and essential amenities. It’s equipped with power windows on all doors and possesses ample torque to haul heavy loads, albeit gradually. For those concerned about comfort, it includes a sophisticated automatic climate control system, though its button layout might resemble ancient hieroglyphics to some. Power steering and power brakes were also standard, covering most essential modern driving needs.
This specific Mercedes 300 TD boasts an unusual feature that resonates with environmentally conscious drivers: it can run on used vegetable oil. Fueled entirely by waste oil, such as the byproduct of cooking oil, this substantial turbocharged wagon is arguably more environmentally friendly than the manufacturing footprint of a modern hybrid car. This wagon, with over 300,000 miles on the odometer, is actively recycling and contributes to environmental sustainability simply by continuing to be used.
However, owning a 40-year-old luxury vehicle like this isn’t without its quirks. Being a diesel, cold starts are accompanied by significant shaking and engine noise, sometimes loud enough to draw concerned looks from neighbors. Another unique aspect is the electrical system. While generally reliable, the function to activate only the left or right side lights remains somewhat puzzling. Explaining this feature to a police officer once led to an amusing, memorable encounter. Lastly, the robust build quality can occasionally be a minor inconvenience. The high-quality driver’s door requires a firm slam to close securely, sometimes prompting concerns about its alignment, though these are minor issues in the grand scheme of things.
If considering moving away from a modern crossover or similar vehicle in favor of a classic with character, the Mercedes-Benz W123, especially the 300 Turbo Diesel, is a compelling option. It keeps pace with modern traffic effortlessly, offering a blend of comfort and safety comparable to much newer cars. While lacking modern tech like touchscreens or push-button start, it provides ample cargo space, reasonable towing capability, and a distinctive personality.
For a relatively modest investment, you can acquire a vehicle that – if properly maintained – could potentially outlast its owner. The W123 is renowned for longevity, with numerous examples exceeding 1,000,000 miles. The chassis remains in use as taxis even decades after production ceased. Its popularity and reputation for quality influenced automotive design across Germany, Japan, and America. If it was considered an excellent luxury vehicle then, it arguably remains a sensible and appealing choice today.
