I'm looking for a solid MB diesel.
Is a '92 300SD any good?

 

That model has the infamous "rodbender" engine. It's a VERY nice car but if the motor has not yet been replaced, it has the potential to be a rather expensive repair in the future. Do a search for more information via Google.

 

Thank you for the input gsxr.
I think I should go for one of the diesel models built in the 80's.
I'm leaning towards a '83 300sd.

 

If you want an 1980's vintage S-class diesel, I would highly recommend the 1986-1987 300SDL. This will have some of the late W126 updates (ABS, airbags, etc) and also will have the OM603 engine which is smoother, quieter, more powerful, and more efficient than the older OM617 engine which was used through 1985.

FYI, the 1990-1991 350SD/350SDL (W126) uses basically the same engine as the 1992-1995 300SD/S350 (W140). Again, if there is a documented engine replacement, these are very nice cars.

 

gsxr I've jumped the gun.
I purchased a 1983 300sd.
I thought since these motors
were all mechanical, they are
more reliable, easier to work on
cheaper to repair.
Whats your thought?

 

The OM617 motors are all mechanical, but so are the OM603. The electronic injection didn't appear until 1996 on the OM606 engine used in the W210 chassis.

The OM617 is known for being more bulletproof than the OM603 (i.e., more tolerant of severe overheating, which hopefully wouldn't be an issue) but not any more reliable. The OM617 may have a slight advantage in cost (cheaper to repair, maybe) but there really isn't much that ever goes wrong with either one, besides oil leaks.

Some people claim the OM617 is easier to work on but I've owned both and I think those people are crazy. The OM603 is, IMO, far easier. I love the auto-tension serpentine belt, hydraulic lifters that do not require frequent adjustment, built-in turnbuckle for IP timing adjustment, much better air cleaner mounting design, almost leak-proof turbo oil drain pipe, and of course the ~20% extra power & fuel economy.

At any rate, the 83 300SD should be a good starting point. Enjoy the car for now and see how you like it. But keep an eye out for a 300SDL, if you find one locally, go check it out and see what you think of it, compared to the '83.

 

has many nice diesels