Rare factory manual transmission W123 300-series diesel wagon. Has served as my daily driver and general workhorse. This is a great and super-reliable driver that needs some cosmetic TLC to be even better!
Key Features:
Engine: Naturally aspirated 3.0L 5-cylinder diesel in excellent condition! A testament to the legendary reliability of these vehicles, it quickly starts and settles into a smooth idle. Runs like a sewing machine, little to no blowby, no visible smoke at startup. Turns off without drama. No oil leaks! These are not rocket cars by any stretch, especially without a turbo, but acceleration is fine with smooth power delivery, easily keeps up with traffic. Has the newer pencil style glow plugs. Recent oil change along with new alternator and power steering belts. New hood pad recently installed. Needs nothing, just get in and drive!
Transmission: Factory 4-speed manual shifts smoothly through all gears. Trans oil recently renewed. Shift mechanism has been rebuilt, along with a new clutch and hydraulic cylinder. Fairly recent driveline "giubo" replacement. Clutch engagement is like new and very smooth, with easy pedal effort, as a Mercedes should be.
Exterior: Original white finish shows 300k+ miles of patina, has plenty of small dings/dents acquired throughout its long existence. New windshield recently installed using factory Mercedes gasket. All other glass is original and in great shape. Has the factory roof rack in good shape. I took the center sections off as they can be easily stolen, and will include them with the sale. The rear hatch lock does not lock. Some cosmetic exterior rubber needs replacement. Paint itself is fairly oxidized with specks of superficial rust throughout. There is some obvious rust in the fenders, with a hole in the passenger side fender and the bottom driver-side corner where the rocker meets the floor pan. Some bubbling in the lower fenders. I have not poked around for further rust, choosing to just enjoy and drive the vehicle as-is. There may be more, but besides what I mention here, there are no other obvious spots. It appears to be free of rust in other areas, like the rear wheel wells, doors, and all other parts of the rockers.
Interior: Blue MB-Tex seats are in excellent condition and very comfy and supportive! The original cloth covered rear seats are in good shape. The original dash has been overlayed with a cover, which itself is now cracked. All instruments function well. Carpeting in good shape. Good headliner. Some of the trim is warped and peeling from time and elements, but its all there! The vacuum door lock system is not functional. Did not come with air conditioning from the factory, and the heating system needs attention. Wind-up windows all function properly. Rear seats fold up and down properly, and there is a rear-facing seat, but it will need some missing parts to return to its former glory.
Other: Good brakes and suspension. These have amazing suspensions, it literally floats over bumps and potholes, outperforming many modern vehicles in that regard! The original hydraulic self-leveling system was capped off, and converted to rear coils at some point. Tires are fairly new with lots of tread remaining. Overall this is a great vehicle for somebody that just wants to drive and experience one of these, and is not bothered by the cosmetic issues. It is an absolute work horse, and has done everything from hauling lumber to moving a household! I'm convinced that it can easily do another 300k miles with the right owner! Especially enjoyable to drive with the manual transmission, which lets it keep up with modern traffic. Clean CA title in my name to go with the vehicle. Any other questions, please ask before bidding.
Payment: Accepting cash or bank wire transfer. Buyer responsible for transportation and pick-up arrangements. Deposits are non-refundable.