The Mercedes 240 is the slowest, yet best car you'll ever own. Here's why!

So if you saw in previous vidoes I had another brown colored 1977 Mercedes 240d. I ended up getting another, not by choice, but because the rarity of finding one with a factory manual trans, so I had to do it. I've put some solid miles on this car so far and its been a blast. Still just as slow, but its way more fun with a manual.
#w123#mercedesdiesel#240d

[@mcesarey]

I gotta say, it's nice to see someone on KZbin who can actually drive a manual. Even a lot of big-name youtubers I see driving manuals can't pull off smooth quick shifts

[@SirDrifto]

I really appreciate that. I do have to give some credit to the w123. It’s very driver friendly.

[@benjaminbuljevic7977]

lol this comment is hilarious greetings from germany

[@BrucePain-_-]

tell me u are American without telling me :D

[@rene837]

Bruh, almost everyone can drive stick here in Germany

[@mcesarey]

@@rene837 I've lived in several countries, I don't disagree

[@DKC0994]

As a German I can tell these cars are truly indestructible workhorses. Many of these get exported to Africa, racking up millions of miles with minimalistic services. A truly thankful, forgiving car

[@SirDrifto]

Wish they made more like these

[@TheCerberr]

This car is overhyped shit biggest disappointment in my classic garage.

[@DKC0994]

@@TheCerberr If you say so, everyone should have his own opinion

[@Kurikost_]

10 years ago i was in morocco, our taxi was a mercedes 123. I thought i traveled back in time.

[@beautifuleasterneuropeanbo750]

@@TheCerberr this is obviously trolling

[@lucasp3894]

I have a manual 200D W123, if you think the 240 is slow then try that one !

[@SirDrifto]

I need to do a review on one 😁

[@h.v.g7882]

@Sir Drifto the 200D with a staggering 60hp 🙈. Butt indestructible as all the Mercedes-Benz diesel engines of that time 👍

[@lucasp3894]

@@h.v.g7882 Mine is a 79 so actually 55hp, not 60 ! You sure learn to anticipate whenever quick acceleration is needed haha

[@RUfromthe40s]

@@h.v.g7882 i owned one and full extras bought it on the netherlands, looked new but already with 3 years and almost no km´s done ,drove mit for 3.000km´s in my way back to Portugal, in a german newspapper said on the front page ,"There are no Mercedes left on deutchland, Portuguese bought them all"and we almost did it ,the car one see more are diesel mercedes everywhere, mainly the slow but safe and confortable 190D or w201 either than all other models, thgis last summer i bought a old new to me ,car and the first i saw all in line were 3 190D 2.5 Diesel and other 2 C-class from the 90´s all in very good condition the price on all wrere 1500€ but ended up buying for the same price a more recent Skoda octavia 2.0TDi sport ,the high-end model and from a very rich person with 87 years old ,nothing in the car was bad ,ended up buying it , allthough i have some mercedes kept in my garage ,the last was a 190E 2.0 automatic in mint condition ofered by a friend in the netherlands in mint condition ,he worked for mercedes and left the car on a mercedes garage and only the body and engine block were kept all else was substituted , because it´s automatic(don´t like it) , on weekends i drive it on dirt roads at high-speed but i´m used to it in early 90´s with a w115 220D without exaust(almost went def) in a section of a rally for fun, i drove it against a new lancia integrale and won always on third gear.The car without exaust drives very fast not slow, regards

[@thatbrokebenz5303]

180D enters the chat

[@larsvommars4261]

The 240d isn't the slowest Mercedes 123. It's the 200d, which has the nickname "shifting dune". Only 55 HP and insanely slow. We owned such a car, when I was a kid in the late 70s. It had the same colour as your car which was called "sahara-gelb" in Germany.

[@SirDrifto]

The shifting dune 🤣

[@danijeljerman9461]

We have it to, same colour but 200d but european car. In europe 300td have only 90hp not 125hp like in usa...At least I didn't see it..

[@martinsv9183]

@@danijeljerman9461 The non turbo had 88hp. The turbo 125hp. We had the turbo in Sweden at last. Although not many sold.

[@HesseJamez]

200D was the slowest, but successfully used in millions of german taxis. My cousin drove one with 1.2 mio kilometers run.

[@HesseJamez]

Indeed the 280E with six inline + 185hp made more fun.

[@MB-mx1wu]

The 240 D is a quite fast car. It offers 20% more cubic capacity than the 200 D. The difference is mindblowing - you can feel the pressure in your back accelerating the 240 coming from the 200. This 240 D has also got a boost-function: just switch of the A/C and you will be amazed by the extra power you´ll get on the street.

[@Zweigenhaft9]

They’re quite literally the best passenger sedans ever made. You don’t need a reason if it pops into your life at the right price, it’s just a given lol

[@SirDrifto]

So true!

[@burningapartmentbuilding]

how do i figure out the right price? one just popped up on my local fb marketplace and im pretty tempted

[@lordbrasic9469]

Momentum is the key to driving these you never really want the wheels to stop turning. Teaches you how to read the road ahead for sure. Most important thing is the dog seems to like it.

[@cantina2425]

right.. i actually had this thought while i owned my auto 240D.. there are soo many slow drivers driving modern cars that i learned to either pass slow drivers.. and never brake unless its necessary to brake.. its crazy how i daily a 40 year old car that would make u think its slow but there are really terrible drivers out there haha

[@jimcady9309]

Too bad he had to interrupt Nugget's nap to showcase the interior. Nugget didn't seem too upset, though.

[@user-bw3qq2mp4l]

I thought the Dog was special😁I am a German Cab Driver and this was my first Car back in 1988.I loved those uncomplicated and unbreakabale Engines.Greetings from Bavaria,Frank

[@nirfz]

I don't know why, but i find the sound of these old MB Diesel engines calming. My first car was a W123 300D (non Turbo) manual wagon. It wasn't fast to accellerate either, but it still as a place in my heart. (if i would find one in good condition i would be intrigued to get one again.) And i have some stories about it "outperforming" newer (At the time i had it) cars with more hp and supposedly better driving capabilities on mountain roads and in emergency braking. 😀 (Never had any other car that is so "comfortable" with being used at it's "limit" for long periods of time. It just did not care if you had the throttle at the floor for several hours or anything like that. Didn't even use that much more fuel...)

[@jackjacko8706]

I have a 240D 1976 and a 300D 1978. both automatic. In Australia Turbo was not available. But Self Levelling Suspension was. Which both have as sedans. As you say, they proceed, but the upside is that you feel the stresses of the day leave you as you cruise at the Highway speeds, not needing to overtake anyone . But relaxed in your cocoon of relaxation , knowing that you could drive forever. What driving should be. No stress.

[@munnsie100]

As a fellow Aussie desiring to own a S123 wagon, this has inspired me to continue my search.

[@patrickkaiserliew3691]

The W123 is the most reliable & make to last vehicle from German MB. Its still in operation here in Malaysia with it mostly as interstate taxis (240D & 300D). My dad first Mercedes Benz W123 is the 300D.

[@derekheeps1244]

Pontons and Fintails still going strong , from the 1950s and 1960s ; the W123 is just a youngster and I consider my 30 year old W124 daily driver as nearly new and just run in on 200,000 miles .

[@andrewpreston4127]

I owned a 1984 240D, here in the UK, for about 6 months around 2003. Frighteningly slow when pulling out into a road with moving traffic. Barge-like handling when on a windy country road. It had a manual gearbox. The plus points were that I liked the looks, it was very comfortable, and the engine which had 300,000 miles on it felt like it was good for another 300,000 with no trouble at all. Scrapped it after the 6 months, due to rust. I paid £300 for it.

[@qwertyui90qwertyui90]

NEVER SCRAP IT. It qualifies this year for the 40+ year tax free exemption and MOT exemption.... Sigh, stupidity. Also the engine in these are unkillable if you do basic maintenance.

[@petercollingwood522]

I have owned two manual 240D's. Both 81 models. They are unique in terms of the bulletproof brilliance of the total package. Both of mine had way over 300K on them when I bought them, one was approaching 400K when I lost it. If I can ever find another one - that's not too badly beat up or poorly maintend - I'll buy it in a heartbeat. There is literally nothing like them out there from any manufacturer ever. By the way I think you are being optimistic on your power figures. I think the 77 only had about 67 horses. Went up to about 77ish in 1980 if my memory is correct.

[@Riehls-Wheels]

Maple yellow with that deep brown interior is one of the best combos. I got a manual 240D Caledonia/Bamboo, with the idea that it would be in the stable for a minute before moving it to make room for something else, but that's not going to happen.

[@MrMaze.]

240td manual here! Has been sat like 10 years and then 250 miles road trip to home with no problems. Awesome cars.

[@gandalf87264]

I love it. I have a 280CE W123 with a huge big 2.8 liter straight 6 cylinder engine under the bonnet. She also feels as lazy as hell, but just floor her and she will fly. Many people say it's an old man's car. Well, I am not a young man anymore and I love her. I just love the way she drives. She has to be the most comfortable car I have ever driven.

[@SirDrifto]

I've heard those are so much quicker

[@wimpykidfan3922]

@@SirDrifto as an owner, they are. For my 1982 280ce with the 2.7 (not 2.8 like this guy said) m110, It pulls insanely well for a 42 year old car. Most fun car ive ever driven!

[@madwookie3084]

You are not kidding. I have a 1985 240d manual imported from Germany. Damn slow, but a lot of fun to drive. 250,000+ miles and still going slow...

[@SirDrifto]

They will go forever 👌

[@danialk8387]

Reliability reliability and reliability. Thats what make these legendary cars so amazing. I.m in love these W123's since last thirty years. Love them. Great video.

[@Tony-pirate]

This car only needed the consumables changed in the first 150,000 miles! Then the maintenance expenses were minimal. Reliability was out of the ordinary, exceptional! The 60 hp engine was running smoothly at 800,000 miles. It seems that it was the most reliable engine in the history of Mercedes!

[@wonderfulworld4833]

I am a proud owner of 1978 Mercedes Benz 240D w123 with manual transmission. My car was built for german market. But in 1981 it was imported to Pakistan. And I love my car.

[@peobryant]

I daily drive a '72 220D with a 4 speed manual and it is a blast. I've had a few W123 300Ds, and while they are very nice cars, I prefer my W115, it is just a more enjoyable driving experience, in my opinion.

[@SirDrifto]

Great cars

[@nate7046]

I’ve been looking at a 72 manual 220d, how is it daily driving it does it keep up with traffic enough how is it cruising on the highway?

[@peobryant]

@@nate7046 I haven't had any issues at all with it on the highway on interstate, keeps up with traffic perfectly fine. If you're pulling out onto a highway from a side road, you need to make sure you have plenty of room because they accelerate slow, but once you're up to speed, there are no issues. My car seems to like to stay between 55-65mph, but it'll do more than that.

[@gravytrain416]

I had a chance 20 or so years ago to buy a 1970 220D manual for $500. Ran and drove perfectly, and it was cosmetically in great shape too. I've been kicking myself in the ass ever since for not buying it!

[@ndniceberg1]

My dad had a manual 300D for over 25 years that he brought from Germany to the U.S. It had the same cloth/leather interior. He got well over 800k miles on this and may have been more since the odometer stopped working for a few years and started back up. The transmission finally gave my dad troubles so he decided to trade it in. It is truly the most reliable vehicle.

[@carlanbogdan5511]

I have a 76’ 2.4d and it never let me down.one of the best ever made!

[@andregrastyan3403]

Nice. I had a 220, 1971 diesel a long time ago and this video brought back great memories.

[@Orey46]

Funfact: these were used as taxi's in morocco until 2019 and now i can still see some of em in he streets

[@SirDrifto]

That is amazing

[@NitishKumar-jk6yg]

In Greece too

[@ykshorts6649]

My dad own a 240d in casablanca, i even drive it to college

[@batuksri]

I love the W123 manual shift. The action has the feel of a slick rifle bolt.

[@j.b.8359]

A very nice video about a 123 Diesel... When I was young, a good friend of mine was the owner of this thing. At this time the vehicle was about 10 years "old" and four young guys hit the european roads to go to Greece!! It was a long journey from Germany. But is was safe and fun to drive.. I never forget the sound of the engine. Your video is a journey to the past. Thank you

[@SirDrifto]

Glad it was a trip down memory lane!

[@joesjunkgarage]

Yes…., a cassette by Alpine! Priceless. Thanks for sharing another wonderful video. Looking forward to seeing future videos as always.

[@sprezzatura8755]

Slow car? How fast can you drive these days anyway? Stop signs, speed bumps, speed limits, speed cameras, radar equipped cops. I love that this car is sunroof-less. Amazing car.

[@antoniomank8046]

Я смотрю Ваше видео уже, наверное, 20-й раз))) мне очень нравится, как Вы искренне получаете удовольствие от этой машины. Мечтаю, что у меня появится такой же!! С любовью из Санкт-Петербурга!!! (Собака просто прелесть!!))

[@Artilleriy_Pushkin1]

Сейчас такой найти очень тяжело будет, они все сгнили.

[@ilovepapiler]

Regards from Costa Rica

[@lex1945]

The 220D and 200D were even slower. However, my dad had a 240D and always pulled a heavy trailer with it and that car did it perfectly. Our next Benz was a 5 cyl. 300D and that car was a lot quicker. Here in Europe, automatics are for elderly people or people that can't shift, LOL!

[@HesseJamez]

Mercedes had an endless list of (expensive) options in the 70s. Automatic was the most expensive, followed by AC. The "base" models were pretty naked. Those options were rather taken for S-Class.

[@praveenhegde8107]

Manual gear shifter is a theft deterrent I'm US of A

[@daniel-ino]

there are almost no modern Mercedes or otger more expensive cars WITHOUT automatic anymore. So what you say that Europeans dont Drive automatics is completely wrong

[@izaakdaviddiggs]

What a find! I had a 1982 240D (automatic), favorite car Ive ever owned

[@wil377ddeciii6]

Hermoso vehiculo Soy de Costa Rica y mi primer automóvil fué un W 123 300D sin turbo, año 78. Tenia 18 años cuando lo compré. Y lo tuve 8 años. Me encantaba mi MB. Se sentía fabuloso conducirlo. Si pudiera volver a tener uno lo haría encantado. Son los mejores automóviles del mundo

[@ilovepapiler]

Hola, yo también soy de Costa Rica y mi primer carro fue un 123 300D. Aún lo tengo❤.

[@michaelmuller4118]

Great video. Brings back good memories. I had a '79 Mercedes 240 Diesel from 1989 till 1994 here in Germany. Also a yellow one, manual of course, with not only manual windows but also a manual sun roof. No AC though. And then I had the idea to trade it in for something faster and I got myself a '87 260E (W124) automatic. It didn't take me too long to miss the 240 D because I had way more fun with it, despite it was slow. But it had character. And you're right, it always brings you to your destination. I will never forget the feeling to drive this thing thru heavy rain, maybe going 60 mph and you had the feeling that nothing can ever happen to you as long as you're inside this thing. Absolutely save. I didn't even feel too slow in it after I had driven a 200 Diesel manual which I used when I was driving taxi in my hometown as a sidejob. 200 D - that is what really is slow! But still, it might be slow with 400-500.000 miles on it but that is when many other cars have given up long before.

[@SirDrifto]

They're phenomenal cars

[@vwestlife]

Sounds like it has an exhaust manifold leak. I had a 1981 240D with the 4-speed manual and it had no trouble keeping up with traffic. The throttle linkage can get out of adjustment over time, so you have to check it and make sure that it's actually reaching wide open throttle when you floor it. And don't trust the Chinese-made oil, air, and fuel filters you get at the auto parts store -- they're of inferior quality compared to German-made parts.

[@ridebadger]

In high school I drove a 1969 22D Merc. Manual tranny. No power at all. Brings back memories.

[@ridebadger]

Brown btw.

[@conantdog]

Back in the day it was the best and strongest car made not so anymore . You got a beauty of a car ,👌

[@SirDrifto]

Totally agree. And thank you!

[@user-wo6ge5lz3m]

These are the best and reliable cars ever made, I’m Moroccan I can tell you, these are still used as taxis today and with over 1 million kilometres on the gages. Did I see it right that this car has A/C??? And only 200000 miles? Man you got yourself an icon. Don’t sell it, best investment ever!

[@SirDrifto]

Would love to see a w123 taxi

[@GOLD_FEVER]

@@SirDrifto Currently seeing one on craigslist for 2200 . Automatic with 180k miles.... The problem is ,i already have 3 cars XD (a beater toyota, a fun car, and a truck) ... But that price is pretty tempting! (along with the fact that i will never need to pass a smog again...)

[@MrGlobonaut]

Thx! Nice trip with your car. The 123 has also always a sweet spot in my heart. Enjoy!

[@andrewkessinger5966]

My grandpa had one of these and a 220D at the same time. They had a race between the 2 and neither won. Then he got a 190D 4 cylinder and it was (still is) a rocket compared to the 240 and 220.

[@SirDrifto]

Awesome 👌

[@joewellborn802]

I really enjoyed the content of this video, as I am a newish 240 owner. Great benchmarking on acceleration, thank you for that! Sidenote: I love the natural lighting and scenery in your video. Just beautiful. I'm inspired and I'm going to go hop in the diesel for a drive... just for the fun of driving... rather slowly...

[@suomenpresidentti]

Use 0W40 oil in winter and no Block heater is mandatory. It is also great in summer, because it stands very well the high engine temps also. Greetings from Finland!

[@SirDrifto]

The blockheater is a total lifesaver

[@plsniper]

Love this car! A buddy of mine had one just like it back in Poland in the 90s. It was his taxi. As I'm about to turn 51, I'm thinking of selling my beemer and getting something more appropriate. :) Like a Benz. Awesome vid! Enjoy your car!

[@SirDrifto]

Absolutely get one. Only difference will be how fast the diesel reaches the speed limit vs the beamer.

[@chrisadams6595]

I love this model. For me it was always the holiday car. My parents took us to Malta in 1973 , and the taxi that took us to the airport was a Mercedes diesel , same in Spain several times through the 80s and 90s also Morocco or West Africa. The sheer strength and integrity of the build of one of these has to be experienced. It truly does make these the best cars ever

[@amitmitra6487]

Lovely car. That sound is so mesmerizing!

[@SirDrifto]

Thank you. Love me a good diesel

[@bluesky_5]

There are a lot of these mercedes in Morocco where I live, and I love the classical looks of it. Looks beautiful.

[@christianschneider3743]

In Germany , the standard W123 was the 200D with 54 HP. The Mercedes Diesel sedan car era started in 1936 with 36 HP.

[@derekheeps1244]

A friend of mine had a 260D from 1938 and also a 230 from the same year .

[@chrisadams6595]

I had a 230E which I loved dearly. Probably the best built car ever .

[@enjoypladecorrals]

Great test drive. I immediately started looking for one online! 240d originally meant for pumps, thats hilarious

[@SirDrifto]

Glad you liked it!

[@joshqunismayilov1996]

Hello from Azerbaijan. I have 1985 production W124 230 with manual transmission. Still working and good condition. These cars are the best.

[@Panzergraf]

And it's such a nice manual too. Very smooth shifting (unless the shifter linkage bushings are bad) Had the same engine/trans combo in my previous W461 G-class, and honestly the little OM616 was a bit too weak for that, as it weighs quite a bit more than a W123.

[@postpostpunk]

I love the 123s. I had an 83 240D (the last year they made then)with a manual(!) That car served me well for years. Beautiful and indestructible. Mercedes will never make a car this great again.

[@zvonemanduric4905]

My late grandad had a basically identical 240D, his had a sunroof and square headlights, maybe a 83" model i think. God he loved that car, and I did as well. Daily adventures in it are some of my fondest memories. Best thing is, after he passed away the car just sat behind our house for almost 10 years without being driven at all. When the day came to sell it the thing sprang to life like it never stopped being a daily driver. Now Im in my 20ies and looking for the same model to be my first personal car. It aint much but thats why I find it perfect.

[@martinsv9183]

Altitude must be a problem. They were slow for sure... but not that slow :) My friends parents had one of these many years ago. Drove it once. I've had the 200 gasoline myself. My parents also. Almost all these were manuals in Europe.

[@JPER-cv2lq]

owned it, drove it, loved. never needed an exhaust system, rarely needed front brake pads don't remember ever replacing the rear ones sure I did once. As an MBZ mechanic did my own work & service. thanks for sharing.

[@SirDrifto]

Great cars indeed 👍

[@mckav2358]

Luv the driving position - must be amazing looking out over that bonnet from behind the wheel

[@NB-oi4uc]

me /Austria / got a 1986 W123 240TD / added a 5th gear to my stick shift / Yes, its a momentum car / its also a binariy car: just pedal to the metal, none in between . . . . just love to ride with it. its slow and loud, but what a great ride. huge space in the back, very clever setup, i already spent a fortune on the renovations of this car, but dont want to miss a bit. . . . carry on. long live the stick shift ! Yours. N.B.

[@dusant4278]

The dog color match with the car.So cool and so natural video.

[@standingbadger]

I love these W123s. Having been earlier this month driving between München and Bregenz (staying with friends in the Allgäu) this lovely beast would not be particularly safe to drive on the autobahns with that little amount of power.

[@PallaviSaini_blisslore]

I have a w123 240D. And I Just love it! ❤️❤️❤️

[@SirDrifto]

They're great 👍

[@GeomancerHT]

Imagine that same engine is used on the G wagons, my dad has a 240 GD, talk about being slow, but that engine has done +3 million miles, that's huge!

[@SirDrifto]

Oh man what is that like to drive?

[@ianboard544]

I had a 300d. Once I ran into a guy that had a 240d at a gas station. He had 570,000 on the original engine, transmission and clutch. Amazingly durable cars.

[@SirDrifto]

They sure are

[@cousinjack2841]

I could tell you a few stories about these... I am an old diesel fuel injection mechanic and have worked on more old Mercedes diesels than I have had breakfasts. In addition, My Dad had a new 240D auto in 1976, the old box shape, followed by a new series 123 240d manual, followed by a 123 300d auto. Great cruising cars. When I was at college, we had a 1960 190D, that was the slowest Merc. At 6000 feet, the same as here in Johannesburg, we used to derate the fuel pumps by 18 percent to compensate for altitude, so you are potentially down that much in performance when compared to sea level. Nice video. Thanks.

[@glynnjohnson3531]

I had a bandage beige. 1979 240 d with 4 speed shifter. I love it. Drove it from Santa Ana to Malibu 4 days a week. It never failed me. Great gas mileage. Slow to start, ran like a simi truck in 4th gear. Your right it’s the best car I ever had.

[@HelpatHomeJim]

Thanks for sharing this video. I love older Mercedes and especially this yellow color.

[@SirDrifto]

It's a great color and thank you

[@stefansjoblom2930]

Mercedes W123 and W124 diesel automatic, Volvo 200, 700, 900 series, Saab 900 and 9000 series is the greatest cars all time.

[@holgernerhoff5459]

Very interesting Video of a lovely car. I think Your dog falled also in love with this car

[@davidmiller6020]

When I was in my 20's my Father bought a Petrol(gas) 123 200, I think it was a 1981 car. He took the engine out of it and replaced it with a 240D that had been reconditioned and had previously done about 120,000 miles. He drove this with the reconditioned engine for several years, (must have been about 5 or 6years) and added a further 250,000 miles. The body was getting a bit rotten so he found another body and transplanted the engine to it. He then did another 120,000 - 130,000 miles. He then sold it. Got £1,500 for it. The engine to our knowledge had done somewhere approaching 500,000 miles. I note that you are revving to the last in each gear. Driving a Diesel I would expect to change up at the earliest possible moment and use the torque to move on. ???

[@ryanarundel2557]

I have the same car, 1979. Same color, same interior, no sunroof, manual windows manual transmission. I got it in December not running. Last month I got it going after replacing the radiator, water pump, brake master, 3 calipers, clutch master, clutch slave, oil cooler. Mine sat in barn for 10 years..... I still have the original working am fm radio no rear speakers. Love it everyday.

[@bobratu9029]

300 d 1991 w 124 2.5 turbo diesel here.I used to have the 240d w 123 and I don t miss it.LOL.In any way.I just like w 124 so much more.But I so much enjoyed your video.

[@zekelucente9702]

I owned a 1978 240D in Anthracite Gray in the mid 80’s when I was in my mid twenties and it was a beautiful and reliable car. I drove it for two years and sold it for what I paid for it.

[@moottori_paa]

70's and 80's many taxidrivers here in Finland own these cars. It was very expensive car to buy, but we have here very hard weather in winter, long distances and not so good roads then. That car just go and go and go and was very comfy to customer.

[@SirDrifto]

They really are bomb proof engines

[@gabryelporto6662]

Here in Brazil we are very familiar with momentum cars, so many people here drive 1L N/A engine cars, so we kinda used to this kind of car. Really nice car and video!

[@SirDrifto]

Love Brazil. Thank you!

[@thiemokucharczyk]

One of the best W123 reviews from the US! :) I totally invite you over to Germany, where a Diesel with manual transmission is the standard and you're barely find any automatic diesels of that generation. I can only assume that the 200D was not shipped to the US, that model was quite common in Europe too and had about 10hp less than the faster 240D ;)

[@SirDrifto]

Thank you! I've never seen a 200d stateside. But have always wanted to try one

[@thiemokucharczyk]

​@@SirDrifto So in case you happen to be in Europe just drop by, I can introduce you to some (including my w201 190D). What I totally grief about is that in the US they had to fit those huge bumpers on the w123 back and front. They totally destroy its elegant line. Can only recommend the Euro version (call me biased...)

[@SirDrifto]

@@thiemokucharczyk count me in!

[@tombouu]

In usa minimum 240d 65hp. In Europa minimum 200d 55hp,60hp, and 220d 60hp

[@kermitefrog64]

I would not say it is the slowest. I have a 1981 Mercedes Benz W123 240d with a 4 speed manual. I added another air intake and installed Bosio injectors which add more fuel. I have the Michelin 205 70r14 tires that unfortunately are no longer made by Michelin. The torque allows me to blow off the line ahead of most gasoline 4 cylinder cars but because of the long drawn out 3rd gear they catch up and pass me and in 4th gear I catch up and keep right with them. At 30 mpg as a tank of a car they are excellent. I will not sell this car for nothing. I have 165,000 miles. I love to work on the car and keep updating and improving the car. My next improvement is replacing the mechanical fan with an electric which will release more horsepower and I got a alternator that puts out 10 more Amps than the original and had the same plug-in. I use Amsoil synthetic oil throughout the car and keep up with the maintenance. The quality of the car is unmatched. I live in a community of 65,000 and I see these cars everyday. These are over 40 years old. This is the last of the forever cars.

[@kermitefrog64]

Something else that adds to the power and mpg is use a good cetane additive and I use Marvels Mystery Oil and it adds more power to the engine. There is a number of different aluminum radiators offered on-line and if you have problems with cooling that is what I would install.

[@bobbbobb4663]

My only gripe about my 1979 240D is 3rd gear. IIRC from the owners manual, 3rd gear is the around town gear (which it does a great job) but it sucks for acceleration. The 5 speed never installed in US cars would probably turn the 240D into a rocket.

[@MrTheHillfolk]

Haha you must be stealing VW parts ,cause I noticed on my 123 that the 55 amp alternator looks the same as the VW 65 amp ones(VW also used the 55). And injectors ,well, it's Bosch so that explains how easy they they are to upgrade (probably nozzles from another model, that's what we do with the vws). Here in the states ,our diesel is horrible ,around 40 cetane. That's like running 87 in your Ferrari, definitely use some boosters (I use new motor oil and all kinds of other slippery things like 2 stroke and marvel besides the cetane boost)

[@joopsmit6910]

She's a beaut and does quite fine even on the hill! Our daily here in the North of South Africa is also 240D (Most cars in SA are manual like the Europeans.) My 300D is almost done rebuilding and cannot wait. When I move to the US....my first two cars will be a 240D and 300D turbo...NO DOUBT. Keep well!

[@SirDrifto]

What year 300?

[@joopsmit6910]

@@SirDrifto she's a 1979 300D naturally aspirated automatic before the vacuum shifting days. Rebuilt engine still breaking in but brake calipers redone as well. Interior is almost showroom. After break in period I will put back the York AC compressor and convert it to R134 refrigerant. Every day a bit better!

[@egonmadsen9262]

I remember i was on a holiday in Norway around 1980 with my parents. There was a long row off cars up a mountain. We thought a tractor was slowing us down. When we got to the front there was a 240D on german numberplates with a caravan strugling to get up with about 40km/h!

[@SirDrifto]

That sounds about right haha

[@sokrates3900]

I owned a 123 series Benz too. It was really a very slow car, but it did his duties better than the today do. Last, but not least, the engine never failed. My car was done with a kilometrage of roughly 2 Mio kilometres.

[@SirDrifto]

Still running strong?

[@sokrates3900]

@@SirDrifto No, I had to sell the car a couple of years ago due to environment laws.

[@andrei666]

@@sokrates3900 shouldn't it be smog exempt due to historic car age?

[@sokrates3900]

@@andrei666 No, definitely not. My car was simply done. Especially the body was damaged through the years by rust. Rust was the main problem for the 123 series. It came better with the 124 series. Less rust, better quality in manufacturing.

[@Herefornow-571]

I was a Mercedes technician for 15 yrs. I've seen 240's with 800k that ran perfectly. I owned 300 turbo diesel that had 600k when I bought it. I drove it for 6 trouble free years then gave it to my daughter as a 1 st car which she drove another 3 years. These are the best built , most reliable vehicles ever made by any manufacturer.

[@SirDrifto]

What's the trick to longevity with these?

[@AndrewCDiprose]

simplicity@@SirDrifto

[@gravytrain416]

Great video. Really enjoyed it. According to W. Robert Nitske, author of "The Complete Mercedes Story", the 1977 240D (US-market cars) only had 62hp. It was increased to 67hp in 1980, and stayed at 67 until the 240D was no longer exported to the US in 1983. Those numbers reflect what I've always thought were true. I've owned three 240s, two of which were manual. I still have a 1980 manual, and an 81 automatic. The 1980 manual is pretty well worn out, and has a lot of rust issues. The 81 auto is still in pretty decent shape. Best car I have ever owned in my life was my 1983 240D manual. That was probably 25 years ago. Had 245K on it, great shape, no rust, nice cosmetically, just a good little car. My wife at the time totaled it. Broke my heart. Car had almost 375K then. I do love the fact that many of the 240Ds had manual windows, manual seats, often manual mirrors. Fewer things to break down and give problems. Congrats on the 1977. I was born that year!

[@Indy_at_the_beach]

I had a 114 MB 250 with a 4 speed and it was a delight. I really wanted a diesel but the gas car was available for a killer price and it was hammer reliable. Bonus was the prices for parts was about half that of the S class. Although I never had to buy parts that was a comfort. That has long since changed with stupid prices for spares today.

[@GreaseAndGravel]

I've had a 1983 W123 200 auto and a 1984 W123 230E... been playing around with the idea of getting a W124 or W201, but after seeing this I know I need to get another W123! Thanks!

[@DaniaBeech]

I do love the W123 and own SEVERAL. My biggest complaint is how quickly the rust destroys them so quickly. I have a 1983 240D like yours with only 50K ORIGINAL miles and documentation since new, but the rust is getting to the body. That's such a turn off! Worse in 2024, seems the "current administration" wants to destroy and eliminate all diesels from the US markets. While I own several W123's that are 300TD wagons and the 240D sedan, I only keep them around so that someday I might pull the motors out and use them in something else. If it weren't for the rust, I'd surely drive them. I have come to love the Volvo 240s! They do not rust and while not completely "reliable" they are VERY DURABLE and I have more than I'm willing to admit. Thanks for the video!

[@paulrobberts1527]

They were fast vehicles back in the day most pickups top speed was 110km maybe so if you see a 123 24d fly past at 125km an hour that was huge and i always admired those "fast" cars as a kid

[@georgex5130]

I would go every summer to Europe and continue to do so even today. These cars were everywhere. The greatest car ever made , totally indestructible.

[@SirDrifto]

That sounds like a great trip

[@ItsTimePictures]

I tried to find a good 123 diesel but around here they were just horrid examples all beat to hell. Recently I grabbed a 1991 350 SDL, a far larger diesel, but it will also last forever as long as it’s properly cared for. This one was. The interior is practically new and it’s comfortable as hell. That being said, I know I’ll still end up getting a 123 at some point. They are pretty much completely analog cars and therefore will always be desirable.

[@jeremyxman]

Great video! Going to go look at a ‘82 240D today.

[@SirDrifto]

They’re great cars

[@vifgull]

I love rolling tanks, Mercedes 240 D W123, Volvo 940 and Toyota. Never brakes down, just going and going to the end of time. Oh, love It! The crap they build today, endless money pits and bad quality. I´m Scandinavian and own cars like this and I drive past cars that have brakedown on the side of the road every day.

[@daniel-ino]

i am 43 years old, live and travelled in Europe all my live. Had rich school teacher as neighbours with a 250 v6 but have never ever seen this era Mercedes with air conditioning

[@janigrohn4516]

Good memories...dad had 1982 model 240d manual back in the 80's.One summer we did a roadtrip to Sweden and Danmark and many times we drove to northern Finland. Car was silver with dark blue interior.And of course in Finland manual transmission was a normal thing to have.

[@jamesboone3678]

My uncles neighbor has 2 red ones diesel. They are in such incredible mint condition even though he drives them every single day. I love the sound of it starting.

[@SirDrifto]

Buy one you'll love it

[@jamesboone3678]

@@SirDrifto I was thinking about it.

[@chrisadams6595]

What I forgot to say in my previous comment. Feels so good to drive , very very very high quality item.

[@pamelagall7597]

About a month ago I acquired a W123 Auto Tranny, yellow like yours, at an estate sale. I bid $1k for it when it went unsold and won(only bidder); 174k miles, semi-rusted out floorboards, runs great, no smoke but a little blow-by. Gonna get some NEW tires (sadly, the very new treaded Michelins are severely dry rotted out). The tranny whine is a little troubling but I'll figure it out.

[@SirDrifto]

They’re wonderful cars. It will treat you well.

[@MartinSage]

Love the looks and the bullet proof engine.

[@jonsenb2461]

such a beatiful car!! especially with this brown lether interior!!

[@SirDrifto]

Its a good color combo

[@markgrunzweig6377]

What ever keeps us "present" in the moment, is worth having & doing.

[@SirDrifto]

Absolutely spot on

[@MBenz1984]

1983 300d na you can time it with an egg timer to 60. I got it from my pop. Pristine 59000 after US conversion, about 12000 km before in 1984. Nice to find your channel.

[@mrlover4310]

Beautiful cars love from the UK.

[@SirDrifto]

Love the UK

[@MrAwesome84]

7:29 Your German is outstandingly wonderful

[@Johans60]

My neighbour had a 250 (6 cyl petrol) new in 1977, what a awesome car