Like many car enthusiasts, I’ve always had a soft spot for classic Mercedes Benz vehicles. While the allure of a powerful 450SEL is undeniable, sometimes it’s the understated elegance and robust engineering of models like the Mercedes Benz 300d 1980 that truly captivates. My story with a 1980 300D began unexpectedly, while driving past a small used car lot. It wasn’t the shiny chrome or pristine paint that initially drew my attention, but rather the weathered charm of a classic Mercedes waiting to be rediscovered.
The car in question was a 1980 Mercedes Benz 300D, finished in what I believe was Orient Red. The paintwork was far from perfect; in fact, it was chalky and faded, almost appearing white in places. It wore painted wheel covers instead of the more common Bundt alloy wheels, adding to its unassuming appearance. Despite its weathered exterior, there was something intriguing about this vintage Mercedes that beckoned for a closer look.
Stepping inside the 1980 300D, the interior told a different story. The tan MBTex upholstery, Mercedes-Benz’s renowned durable vinyl, had held up remarkably well against the elements. Known for its resilience to sun damage and wear, the MBTex showcased the enduring quality of Mercedes engineering. While the carpets were rough and stained, this seemed like a minor cosmetic issue easily addressed. A quick trip to a local retailer for some affordable tan carpet promised a simple interior refresh. For added practicality, black carpet was chosen to reline the trunk area, ensuring durability and a clean finish.
Under the hood, the 1980 300D housed a non-turbocharged 5-cylinder diesel engine. This powerplant was essentially a 5-cylinder variant of the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder found in the 240D. While horsepower figures were modest, around 77hp compared to the 240D’s 62hp, every bit of power was welcome in this era of fuel-efficient motoring. It’s worth noting that the legendary turbocharged 5-cylinder diesels for the 300D and 300SD models emerged in 1979, boosting output to a more respectable 110hp. The 1980 Mercedes Benz 300D, while not a powerhouse, represented Mercedes’ commitment to diesel technology and fuel economy.
Despite its modest performance, the 1980 300D was a well-equipped luxury car for its time. A quick online search reveals that its original MSRP in 1980 was around $21,000, equivalent to over $62,000 today. This price tag reflects the array of standard features that were considered true luxuries at the time, often optional extras on other makes. Power windows, a power antenna, genuine wood trim, high-quality fog lamps, vacuum-operated central locking, rear defroster, a 4-speed automatic transmission, AM/FM stereo, and automatic climate control were all included. Optional extras were available, such as an electric sunroof, AM/FM/cassette player, leather upholstery, metallic paint, and cruise control, allowing buyers to further personalize their 1980 Mercedes Benz 300D.
The W123 generation Mercedes-Benz, to which the 1980 300D belongs, is renowned for its exceptional build quality. In the US market, the W123 was offered with diesel engines (240D, 300D turbo and non-turbo) and gasoline engines (230 briefly, and 280E). Body styles included coupe, sedan, and station wagon, although engine availability varied across body styles. The rest of the world enjoyed an even wider range of engine choices. The coupe variant, particularly a black 1985 300CD turbodiesel with Bundt wheels, remains a stylish and desirable classic.
The used car lot where I found this 1980 Mercedes Benz 300D was run by a retired car dealer. He sourced interesting vehicles from Florida and offered them for sale as a hobby. The 300D had low mileage for its age, around 80,000 miles in the year 2000. Its weathered paint was attributed to years of Florida sun exposure and a lack of regular waxing. While it ran reasonably well, a rough idle and slight hesitation were noticeable. After some negotiation, I purchased the Mercedes Benz 300D 1980 for $1,800.
To revitalize the faded paint, I turned to Klasse wax, a product I had used with great success before. This non-abrasive wax effectively cleans and removes imperfections, working wonders on weathered paint. Applying several coats of Klasse brought the Orient Red paint back to a respectable shine, close to its original vibrancy.
To address the engine’s rough idle and hesitation, I used Power Service Diesel treatment, a product recommended by Mercedes dealers for diesel engines. Using a double dose of the treatment for a couple of tankfuls of fuel, combined with some spirited highway driving, effectively smoothed out the engine’s performance. Sea Foam is another similar product known for its engine cleaning capabilities, suitable for both gasoline and diesel engines.
With refreshed paint, new carpets, and a smoothly running engine, my 1980 Mercedes Benz 300D became a reliable and attractive classic car. It served me well until a move prompted its sale. The allure of another, more powerful classic Mercedes eventually led to its departure, but the memories and appreciation for the Mercedes Benz 300D 1980 and its enduring qualities remain. The 1980 300D stands as a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to quality, durability, and understated luxury, making it a compelling choice for classic car enthusiasts today.
