1983 Mercedes-Benz 300 D Turbodiesel

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

“The 300 D Turbodiesel: Power with responsibility.”  The 1983 Mercedes-Benz 300 D Turbodiesel is a special model in the W123 series. Introduced in the late 1970s, the W123 series quickly became one of Mercedes-Benz’s most successful lines. By 1981, Mercedes added a turbocharged version of the 3.0-liter inline-five diesel engine to the 300 D, primarily for the North American market, where drivers desired more power without sacrificing fuel economy. 

The 1983 model year featured the OM617.952 engine, producing around 123 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque — impressive for a diesel sedan of its time. It was paired with a four-speed automatic transmission and known for its exceptional longevity, often surpassing 500,000 miles with proper maintenance. 

The 300 D Turbodiesel combines classic Mercedes styling with advanced safety features like anti-lock brakes (optional), crumple zones, and a reinforced passenger cell. Inside the 300 D features high-quality materials like real wood trim and durable MB-Tex or optional leather upholstery. 

Today, the 1983 300 D Turbodiesel is celebrated as a symbol of Mercedes-Benz’s engineering ethos — solid, sensible, and built to last. As its brochure stated, “The 5-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine delivers smooth, confident acceleration with the economy and durability that only diesel can provide.” 

Highlights 

• Finished in Light Ivory (623U) over a Palomino MB-Tex (154) interior 

• 3.0-liter inline-five-cylinder turbocharged diesel (OM617.952)  

• Four-speed automatic transmission 

• Clean CARFAX Vehicle History Report 

Features 

• Factory options include: 

  • 252 – Radio Becker Mexico Cassette Full Stereo Electronic, USA Version 

  • 410 – Sliding Roof, Electrically Operated 

  • 440 – Tempomat (Cruise Control) 

  • 451 – Tachometer 

  • 467 – Central Locking Mechanism and Instruments with English Lettering 

  • 491 – U.S. Version 

  • 504 – Outside Rearview Mirror, Right; Electrically Controlled; L.H.D 

  • 531 – Automatic Antenna 

  • 546 – Lockable Glove Compartment and Sun Visor with Vanity Mirror, Illuminated, Left and Right 

  • 575 – Front Folding Armrest and Right Front Seat with Seat Height Adjustment 

  • 588 – Automatic Climate Control And Electric Window Lifters (Front and Rear Doors) 

  • 593 – Heat-Insulating Glass, All-Around, Heated Rear Window Pane (Single-Sheet Safety Glass), Band Filter 

  • 640 – 15-Hole Light Alloy Rims 

  • 673 – High-Capacity Battery 

Known Imperfections 

• Body in nice condition commensurate with a 42 year old vehicle  

• Small rust on right and left wheel well 

• Small wear on front seats and carpets  

• Power antenna intermittently inoperable 

Included 

• Keys 

Ownership History 

The accompanying CARFAX Vehicle History Report places this 1983 Mercedes-Benz 300 D Turbodiesel in Tennessee, New York, and since 2022, Michigan.  

Additional Notes 

A Broad Arrow Auctions Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner of this vehicle. Broad Arrow Auctions is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hagerty.  Contact: Craig Zimmerman  Phone: 586.707.5811‬  email: cszimmerman@hagerty.com