1982 MERCEDES 240D W123

The W123 240 D (1976-1985) used the OM616 2.4-litre diesel with 65-72hp. Legendary durability - many have exceeded 500,000 miles. The definitive taxi/fleet car of its era.

Engine: M102/M115 four reliable. M110/M123 six excellent. OM616/OM617 diesel legendary - properly maintained examples run forever. Body: Rust is the critical W123 concern - check floors, sills, inner wings, wheel arches, boot floor. Subframe mounts. Vacuum: Various systems use vacuum - check for leaks affecting locks, climate. Transmission: 722.3 auto very reliable. Manual available. Suspension: Ball joints, control arms. Self-levelling rear on estates. Wiring: Pre-biodegradable era - generally reliable. General: Perhaps the best-built Mercedes ever. Rust-free examples command premium prices.

Six-cylinder or turbodiesel engine, Estate body (T-Model), Manual gearbox (rare), Good rust-free bodywork (critical), Cloth or leather interior, Service history, Known history