Possible "new" Car; Mercedes 220D, Seeking Advice

[comanche1989]

Hi All, I was wondering if anyone has had experience with early 70's Mercedes Diesels. I don't really know much about them, but it seems to be a good running car. Here is the description provided by the seller, "Up for sale is a very unique yellow Mercedes 220D with a history to match it's bright color. The car does have some rust areas however it runs and drives very well. This car is known as the w115 and only has 56hp in a 2.2 inline 4 cylinder diesel engine. (slow but reliable) It's very good on gas. (4 speed stick shift) The only thing power on this car is the antenna which still works. No power steering, power windows, AC, etc. This car gets looks from everyone on the highway. "

 

    Are these diesels reliable? It does have slight rust issues, is that a deal breaker? He wants 1200 dollars for it. I know this isn't a Jeep, but I figured someone might have some information to offer on the subject.

 

Thanks!

[87manche1]

Watch reat trunk area for rust. They rot out and the suspension goes threw the floor. Price isn't horrible I'd say 900 but I'm cheap.

[HOrnbrod]

^^ True about the trunk area/floor. I've had a couple of 300Ds overseas and loved them, but never a 220D. Even the 300Ds were slow,  but they always got you there and were cheap to operate. It should not be too rusty if it has spent it's entire life in VA. I'd definitely spring for a carfax to check.

[Incommando]

I also recommend a check of its history. Here in the rust belt those early M-B's not only had the floor rust issue but serious frame rot-out issues as well. You might also randomly check the prices of some routine replacement parts. This may not be a problem at all for that car but replacement parts, like an alternator for example, for some less-than-popular older imports can be ridiculously expensive.

[AMCJeepMJ]

If you can find one, snag a 190D. They're rated for about 75hp, but the engine is bulletproof. Also it is far lighter than the 70s models and can pull 35-40 mpg. They also have much more modern safety features than older MBs... and probably more than our MJs have.

[Incommando]

Factory MJ safety features beyond the seat belt and horn:  :crossfingers:

[xjrev10]

Of course it gets good gas mileage, it doesn't use any!

[comanche1989]

Thanks for the helpful replies everyone, I am going to look at it on Saturday, and will let you all know what happens!

[carnuck]

Too bad it isn't just as easy as putting a turbo on them. The block is stronger and the cylinders have bottom oilers for turbo ones.