Basic information and history

The Mercedes-Benz W123 was introduced for the 1976 model year and quickly established a reputation for robust construction, well-balanced chassis design and long service life. The 300 D stands out with its five-cylinder OM617 diesel engine, a simple and durable four-stroke unit that has become appreciated for its reliability and smooth running. The combination of classic rear-wheel drive layout and period-typical Mercedes engineering provides a driving experience that many enthusiasts seek.

This is a Swedish-sold 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 D W123 with an odometer reading of 258,300 kilometres. The total number of owners is 9. The seller states that inspections carried out, among other things, give no indication that the car has travelled more than what the odometer shows, but the mileage cannot be guaranteed. The car has passed inspection according to the seller and is stated to be exempt from inspection thereafter. There are no loans encumbering the vehicle and there is no deductible VAT.

Equipment and options

• Restored original condition
• Glass sunroof (retrofitted)
• Blaupunkt Madrid 200 BT with Bluetooth and USB
• All electronics reportedly function

Modifications and improvements

The car was prepared in 1999 and repainted in Champagne Metallic, an original colour for the W123, and a glass sunroof was fitted. The engine and injectors were overhauled at the same time.

In the early 2000s all wheel bearings and various bushings in the rear end were replaced.

In the winter of 2021-2022 a number of improvements were made:

• Service with oil and filter
• New oil, seal and bushing for the rear axle
• New gearbox mount
• New engine mounts
• New trim strips under the rear lights
• New mud flaps
• New Hella 220 auxiliary lights
• New star for the bonnet
• New tyres
• New radiator and flushed cooling system
• New oil pan gasket
• New mount for the exhaust system
• Completely gone through and cleaned electrical system
• New paint on the bonnet
• Glow plug system gone through and updated with quick glow plugs

Since then the cooling system has again been flushed and given new coolant, and a new thermostat has been installed.

Condition

Body and exterior The paint condition is assessed as good by the seller. The body is stated to be in good condition and the windows are in good condition with no noted remarks.

Interior The interior is described as well preserved in relation to age, with good condition of upholstery and panels. The instrument panel is in good condition and the headliner is also stated to be in good condition.

Tyres and wheels Tyres and wheels are in good condition according to the seller.

Mechanics and function The engine is stated to be in good condition, it starts and runs faultlessly. The gearbox shifts as it should and the clutch works. The brakes are described as being in good condition. All other electronics work and the instrument panel is free of warning lights. The exterior lighting has a few points to address, as the daytime running lights need to be connected, as do the reverse lights. The car can be driven as it stands.

Service history

The seller states that the car is fully serviced. There is a complete binder with various receipts and invoices for spare parts from Mercedes-Benz in Sweden and abroad as well as other suppliers, a new car stereo, oils and consumables, as well as inspection protocols and old registration certificates.

The most recent inspection according to the seller was on 4 April 2025, and the car is stated to be exempt from inspection thereafter.

Summary

An early Swedish-sold W123 in the form of a Mercedes-Benz 300 D from 1976, with the OM617 diesel. The car is in restored original condition and has 258,000 kilometres on the odometer. Exterior, interior, tyres and mechanics are described as being in good condition. Note that the daytime running lights and reverse lights need to be connected. The car has passed inspection according to the seller and is stated to be exempt from inspection thereafter. An attractive example for those who appreciate the W123 generation's durable engineering and classic character.