1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 SDL

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

“At Mercedes, it takes nearly seven years for the proper research and development of a single vehicle, and the new S-class sedan is the most propitious product of that span of time,” wrote Motor Trend of the new large W126 series cars. Introduced in 1979, the W126 series was a significant evolution in Mercedes-Benz's flagship sedans, emphasizing aerodynamics, safety, and comfort. The new long-wheelbase 300 SDL, part of the mid-cycle refresh in 1986, benefited from these advancements, including improved aerodynamics with a lower drag coefficient and enhanced safety features such as anti-lock brakes and a driver’s airbag.

The 300 SDL featured the new OM603 turbocharged inline-six diesel engine, rated at 148 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided smoother and quieter operation compared to its predecessors, while maintaining the fuel efficiency and legendary durability that Mercedes-Benz diesels were known for. Its spacious interior, high-quality materials, and advanced technology for its time included features like power-adjustable seats, climate control, four-wheel disc brakes, and a sophisticated suspension system, offering a truly sumptuous driving experience. Or as the Mercedes-Benz 300 SDL brochure stated, “Slip inside and settle back and savor the deep pleasures of the most supremely civilized diesel ever designed.”

Highlights

• First year long-wheelbase version of the 300 SD

• OM603 turbocharged inline-six diesel engine rated at 148 horsepower

• Four-speed automatic transmission

• Features and options on this 300 SDL include:

  • 227 – Ashtray, Cigar Lighter at Rear, Left and Right

  • 240 – Outside Temperature Indicator

  • 241 – Front Seat LH Electric Adjustable with Memory

  • 242 – Front Seat RH Electric Adjustable with Memory

  • 412 – Electric Sliding Roof with Tilting Device

  • 446 – Tempomat (Cruise Control), Steering Column, Electrically Adjustable, And Airbag

  • 451 – Tachometer

  • 461 – Instrument with Miles Indicator and English Legend

  • 470 – Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)

  • 491 – U.S. Version

  • 506 – Outside Rear View Mirror, Left and Right, Heated (Electrically Adjustable on the Right)

  • 519 – Becker Radio Mexico Grand Prix, Electronic (USA)

  • 531 – Automatic Antenna

  • 543 – Sun Visor with Vanity Mirror, Illuminated, Left and Right

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

  • 592 – Heat-Insulating Glass, All-Around, Heated Rear Window Pane, Band Filter

  • 600 – Headlamp Wiper/Washer

  • 611 – Courtesy Lamps for Front and Rear Doors

  • 639 – Elimination of First-Aid Box and Warning Triangle

  • 640 – 15-Hole Light Alloy Rims

  • 673 – High-Capacity Battery

  • 877 – Reading Lamp in The Rear

Features

• Recent maintenance includes:

  • Rebuilt fuel injection pump supplied by Yankee Diesel

  • Engine belts replaced

  • Intake manifold seal

  • Air Conditioning has refrigerant converted to R-134a

  • New climate control computer

  • New Bosch starter

  • New Battery

  • Manual glow plug override system installed for controlled cold starts

  • New Monarch brand glow plugs

  • Headlights are Lexus-style headlights and not original parts, yet more functional

  • Rear trunk seal has been replaced

Known Imperfections

• CARFAX reports on 9 May 2021, “Accident reported: minor damage” and “Vehicle involved in a rear-end collision,” “Damage to front,” “Functional damage reported,” and “Airbags did not deploy.” CARFAX also states, “Minor damage is usually cosmetic, including dents or scratches to the vehicle body.” The front fender was subsequently replaced

• Odometer, clock, and temperature indicator does not work

• Passenger seat motors need replacing

• Upholstery throughout is rough

• Rear main seal has a slow leak of engine oil, which is typical for these diesels

• Seasonal R-134 leak(s) requiring seasonal recharging

Included

• Many spare small parts

• Interior parts including a refinished Zebrano wood shift panel cover

Ownership History

The accompanying CARFAX Vehicle History Report places this 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 SDL in Alabama and Georgia. The consignor reports the 300 SDL “has had about $10k worth of mechanical work done by a local talented European car mechanic and was also inspected by Long Mercedes of Chattanooga. It needs a new shift linkage bushing available from Mercedes Source.com and possibly needs a new neutral safety switch, dependent on if the shift bushing fixes that problem or not. The back right passenger side window needs a new (used only available) low gear window glass regulator motor, for lowering the window, as it is in a fixed rolled up position at this time. The car is not the original factory color both inside and out, and has likely had a previous restoration attempt to some degree. Originally sold in Mobile, Alabama, and has remained a salt-free Southern, U.S. based owned car with an unknown number of owners. It was previously owned by a now-retired attorney from the Mobile area, and we gave the car the nickname Matlock, because of that fact, from the TV show, Matlock, featuring the late, great Andy Griffin.”