The W115 chassis Mercedes-Benz, equipped with a diesel engine, is generally considered to be among the world’s most durable automobiles. The seller of this 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300D, who notes he’s its second owner, believes the paint is original and the odometer reading is accurate. Based on the provided photographs, this example appears to be about as close as you can come to showroom new in 2022. The naturally aspirated Mercedes-Benz OM617 3.0-liter inline five-cylinder diesel engine isn’t going to be fast, but these engines are capable of running a 300D comfortably to 85 mph and staying there all day long. Reports of 800,000 to 1.5 million miles on these engines are not uncommon. This example has reportedly been driven just 32,000 miles since it was purchased in Virginia, before going to Canada in 1978. The engine bay appears to be very clean, per the photos, and the seller reports that “cold starts are easy” with a turn of the key, and that the vehicle has no leaks. The transmission is the 722.1 four-speed automatic, which the seller reports shifts “perfectly.” The seller indicates that the paint on this 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300D is original and in “excellent” condition, and he points out two small paint chips on the hood as the only blemishes on the finish. The seller hasn’t provided a paint code, but the color appears to be Pastel Blue (Pastellblau). The exterior chrome appears to be in excellent shape, as do the rubber parts, which seem to have retained their rich black color rather than fading to gray. The bumpers and grille all appear to have retained their chrome finish and show no dents, cracks, or other issues. The seller reports that the glass is “perfect,” and that the exterior lighting is all functional. Finished in blue M-B Tex, the upholstery appears to be in outstanding condition, with not rips, tears, sags, or color loss visible in the photos. The console between the front seats appears to be remarkably clean, with no signs of scratches or wear. The door panels appear to be in excellent condition, with no damage on the door pulls/armrests. The visible portions of the dash, in the photographs, appear to have no cracks. The instrument panel looks clear and legible, and the seller reports that the gauges are all operable. The original Becker Europa II stereo is in place. The seller indicates that the air conditioning is functional. Despite living most of its life in Canada, the underside appears to be very clean, per the photos, with only expected light surface rust on the exhaust system. The 300D has power steering, which the seller says “works well,” with no leaks. The seller does not provide suspension or braking service history, but he does note that the systems have no issues. The wheels are original steel wheels with full wheel covers, painted body color, and the seller claims that the tires are original.
