1978 Mercedes-Benz 300D, 2 long-term owners, very low mileage, truly like new

1978 Mercedes-Benz 300-Series Cognac Tex Interior Description

Mercedes 300D W123 Sedan

True Survivor in pristine condition with extremely low mileage. Two long-term owners from new.

Occasionally a car comes along that seems to survive forever: early VW Beetles, Volvo 544s, and, this car, the Mercedes Benz 300D W123. This model was written up in the New York Times for its longevity and faithful following.

W123is the internal chassis-designationMercedes-Benzused for their executive line of cars, manufactured between 1976 and 1985. The W123 models became the most successful Mercedes, selling 2.7 million cars before replacementafter 1985.

There is good reason for their popularity; they seemingly run forever. Routinely, you will find 300D clocking over 500,000 miles. Finding one with 100,000 miles is like finding a new one. This particular example came from its original Florida owner, who garaged and maintained it so religiously that he recorded every fuel stop! I have owned, properly stored (indoors) and carefully serviced the car for around 15 years and it has never failed to provide reliable, trouble-free service.

The car is equipped with power steering, power brakes, air conditioning (blows cold), Becker AM/FM radio, tinted glass (removable), electric sunroof, power windows and more. I had the car repainted once, as the clearcoat in 70’s German cars was notorious for clouding over. But there was no accident, rust, or other repairs required, so essentially, this qualifies as an excellent, unrestored 2-owner car; in show car terms, a “Survivor.” Speaking of show cars, I recently entered this car in a car show where condition was the primary criterion for awards in order to level the playing field. (What’s the point of being “Best in Class” in a field of one? Needless to say, this 300D took home a trophy for its amazing original condition.

Do not confuse this specimen with one of the clapped-out, high-mileage examples that routinely appear on these listings. Of course, those cars are probably in reasonable mechanical condition, as the W123 is virtually indestructible. The difference is that this car both looks and drives like new. The car is in beautiful cosmetic and mechanical condition and surely is one of the lowest mileage models around. No dash pad or wood cracks, original seats, carpets, headliner. The trunk is also immaculate and rust-free. The car was just serviced, including a brand-new Gold Duralast battery, oil change and filters, etc. It’s completely ready to go!

If you’re looking for reliable, prestige transport for the next few decades, you will not find a better choice. The car is sufficiently fast when driven properly to use for an occasional long trip, and it’s perfect for around town. And, importantly, it is extremely well-built (safe) and routinely gets 35+ miles MPG.

For more information,please call Michael at 631 553 5300