Low Mileage Turbo Diesel: 1985 Mercedes 300 TD Wagon – SOLD!

October 12, 2021 Update – We confirmed the seller of this “Classifind” deleted their listing, so we’re now able to call this one “SOLD!” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

Some vehicles just fit the definition of timeless. The Mercedes-Benz W123 lineup certainly belongs in that category, as these contemporary classics continue to have a strong following in the collector car marketplace. This 1985 300TD wagon is a low-mileage example that previously lived in Florida was originally listed in September 2021 on Craigslist in Maine with an asking price of $10,000.   Comparing this price against the Hagerty Insurance Online Valuation Tool confirms this private seller has his diesel wagon priced fairly, as an “Excellent” example is said to be worth $40,100 with a “Good” example priced at $16,800.

The W123 has remained as popular as it has for a few reasons: first, it’s undoubtedly a classic, with the looks that immediately identify it as a vintage Mercedes. It’s mildly practical, in that it can accommodate passengers and haul their luggage too, courtesy of a generous trunk (or more than that, if you opt for a wagon like this.) They were overbuilt when new, both in terms of highly durable drivetrains and excellent quality control inside, with materials that are legendary for taking a beating and still looking good; and the diesel models have a mystique that surrounds them for being incredibly long-lived, capable of racking up 300,000 to 400,000 miles with ease. Add in that they’re still reasonably priced and you have a perfect recipe for a classic that won’t go out of style.

This turbodiesel wagon may live in Maine, but it was originally a Florida car. The seller includes a photo of the brass plate that accompanies the first owner’s paperwork when they pick up the car, and we can do a quick Google to confirm it was owned by a company still in existence today, known as “Pitt Stove” in 1985 but now called “Pitt Cooking” with a showroom in Miami. The wagon is said to feature mostly functional features, including all lights, the windows, and the door locks, although the air conditioning is not blowing cold. The tires are new but the seller doesn’t detail any other recent maintenance; regardless, he claims you can drive it home today. There’s minor rust in the battery tray and one wheel arch, but it’s otherwise solid. Good luck with the purchase if you bring the clean W123 long roof home.

Here’s the seller’s description:

“1985 Mercedes 300 TD Wagon, 80k original miles, runs, drives, stops like it should. All gauges, lights, windows and locks work, new tires. Original radio, and power antenna not working, AC blows warm. 1 inch of battery tray rusted and small hole under that through wheel arch. Interior in excellent condition. Drive it home. Car is from Florida and has original paint.“

Do you have a Mercedes-Benz 300TD story you’d like to share?  Comment below and let us know!