1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 TD Auto

We are delighted to be offered a much-loved 300TD which rolled down the production line in 1984. A relatively modest 138,000 miles has been covered thus far, so some might say the car is barely run in.

Our seller bought the car at a Bonhams auction some four years ago and has spent a considerable amount on maintenance to ensure it was a capable daily driver. Used extensively for many road trips and adventures, it has proved to be an able long-distance cruiser, the capacious load bay coming into its own for family luggage duties. It has proved to be extremely reliable, which comes as no surprise to us.

The period colour combination of Olive Green with a tan cloth interior is a rare find indeed and the car boasts an excellent specification. An automatic gearbox is fitted, and Mercedes has always made the best, thus ensuring a relaxed drive.

For those balmy summer days, a large sunroof and wind deflector are fitted. Also worthy of note are the chrome roof bars, retractable parcel shelf and dog guard. Self-levelling suspension is also fitted to keep everything on an even keel no matter how heavy the load carried and there’s even a tow bar with twin electrics should a caravan or boat trailer be your thing.

With an overseas posting now in the offing, the seller has decided it is time to find the 300TD a new loving home.

If the 300TD were produced today, there would be plenty clamouring to get behind the wheel. Timeless good looks are the order of the day. It is quite possible that our car still sports its original paint finish and there’s still a deep lustre to the finish.

Having said that, there are some marks picked up along the way. Some would say they add to the character of the car, whilst others might seek the early attention of a body shop. Our pictures and video clip are there for your viewing pleasure.

There are some rust bubbles appearing in places, such as the lower front spoiler and on the front wings. There is also an area on the roof where the paint is less than perfect.

There are also some scratches along the flanks and the tailgate has a rash of small stone chips.

The chrome is in reasonable condition though we do note a dent on the top of the back bumper.

The rubber trim around the window and door surrounds is showing signs of perishing, with replacement relatively straightforward should it be of concern.

Steel wheels are fitted with matching colour-coded moon-disc hubcaps and each is shod with a new ‘Runway Enduro’ tyre, fitted by our seller in 2019, soon after purchase. Care taken with tyres is generally a good indication of thoughtful and considered classic car ownership.

The roof rails and electric aerial have both been replaced recently at considerable expense.

There is a twin socket tow bar fitted, ideal for towing duties. We would be inclined to remove it and improve the car’s aesthetics.

The tan cloth interior has stood up to the rigours of everyday life rather well. Mercedes were using the very best materials on this era of cars. However, there are some stains on the upholstery which we feel could be improved with some proprietary cleaners, or better still consign the car to a professional valeter.

Also in need of a deep clean are the carpets, which though in good condition, do bear the marks and signs of use. Especially noticeable is the large stain in the passenger footwell.

The boot carpet could do with a refresh too, but other than the marks it has worn well. At the side of the boot compartment sits the spare wheel and tyre, an older item. There’s also a first aid kit for that sudden emergency.

The headlining at the rear has been damaged and is slightly coming adrift.

With the doors open, there are some traces of rust appearing, visible in our photographs.

The driving position is suitably commanding, the large Mercedes steering wheel tending to dominate. Ahead of the driver sits a clear array of instrumentation and falling easily to hand is the gear selector. Engage drive and waft!

Tunes are provided by a Pioneer digital media receiver, a modern touch we approve of.

We always include plenty of photographs of a car’s underside and that is the case here. We suggest taking a few moments to study them. We would be tempted to get the car up on some ramps, give the whole area a good clean and then protect it all with a good coat of quality underseal. Prevention is better than cure. Whilst there, the areas of surface corrosion can be suitably banished.

Lift the bonnet and that reliable and trustworthy diesel engine is revealed in all its glory. What it may lack in sophistication it more than makes up for in durability and dependability. The beating heart and having been properly maintained, in recent years especially, it should continue to give excellent service for many years to come.

We are told the car starts on the button and drives as one would expect.

Our seller, a conscientious type has maintained the 300TD well during four years of ownership. If it needed doing, it was consigned to a specialist for immediate attention. The extensive and expensive work carried out includes:

• July 2019 – Oil service, brake pipes, 4 new tyres and a new battery.

• Sept 2019 – Engine service

• Nov 2019 – New radiator and auxiliary drive belt

• June 2020 – Full inspection and engine and gearbox service. New front pads, power steering belt. Power steering flush.

• Feb 2021 – New front shock absorbers, brake and suspension work, minor body repair to footwell.

• Mar 2021 – Repair vacuum door lock system. Replace vacuum boot lock system.

• Jan 2020 – New alternator

• Mar 2022 New aerial and roof rails fitted.

The princely sum of £8,653 was spent, with invoices in the picture section.

The last MoT was carried out in February, the mileage then reading 138,143. There was one advisory.

W123 estate cars are becoming rarer by the day and good, low mileage examples are like hens’ teeth.

This is a classic car that can be driven daily and with the confidence that you will arrive at journey’s end relaxed and unflustered. The extensive maintenance carried out by our diligent seller should ensure that the Mercedes reputation for peerless reliability remains intact.

We are confident that the 300TD will attract plenty of interest from the classic car community and therefore predict a sale price of between £14,000 and £18,000.

Viewing is always encouraged, and this car is located at our Abingdon headquarters; we are open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm and to arrange an appointment please use the ‘Contact Seller’ button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’