1979 Mercedes-Benz 300-Series

OM617

Automatic

W116

Clear

Diesel

I've always wanted one of these cars in Euro trim, and it had to be a diesel. Problem is no diesels were available in US in 1973 when this model was first introduced, and the next year all cars were fitted with the ugly big bumpers and they never looked the same after that. I think the diesels only came in 1979 for a year or two, so a good one is not easy to find. It took me several years to find what I wanted! What sold me on this car was the fact that it was an enthusiast owned well taken care of example in a perfect color combination: grey silver with red interior. It must be one of the rarest and nicest color combinations for a classic Benz.In addition, it was superb mechanically, and was completely rust and bondo free.It was a well optioned car with automatic transmission, AC, power sunroof, Becker cassette player, Cruise control, etc.Previous owner had also fitted it with slim European bumpers to get rid of the ugly US mandated heavy bumpers.I have since added Euro headlights to complete the look. Cosmetically the car needed some help, as the paint had faded and seats were worn. So it was repainted in the original color, good quality materials (PPG base + clear), and got new seat upholstery from Gahh. The car has no rust and no bondo! I have uploaded a video to Youtube to show how this engine starts and stops. You can see it here: youtube.com/watch?v=N-2aPn3p5QU Basically the car starts with a flick of a key, cold or hot. Very well taken care of motor, no smoke, no blowby, no funny noises of any kind.These OM617 engines are known for being extremely dependable, and this one is no exception, ready for another quarter of a million miles. Turbo is in great shape, and the car has excellent power and acceleration. Transmission is great as well, shifts well up and down as it should. Stock wheels on the car were Bundt alloys, but I replaced them with early style steel wheels with original hubcaps, as they complement the car much better. I still have the alloys, so the buyer can choose them instead, if they prefer. Tires are great, tread at 95%.No rust and no bondo on this car! Original Becker radio + cassette player works great. I've uploaded a Youtube video of it here: youtube.com/watch?v=XZGrj46-93w Dashboard and headliner are very nice. All the gauges work well, even the clock. Power sunroof works as well. Heater is great, but AC blows warm. Only one of the power windows is working at the moment, the rest need to be looked at. Windshield and gasket have been replaced, no leaks. All the chrome and anodized aluminium trim is in great condition. Good weatherstripping throughout the car. Trunk matting and rubber are excellent, full size spare + original tool kit. Original books manuals included. I have uploaded many more pictures to an online album here: s1062.photobucket.com/user/59Benz/slideshow/sd3 Didn't think I'd sell this car, but the time has come, and I need to move on to other things. How do you put a price on a beautiful Benz that you can drive forever?! I don't know, so am listing it with no reserve. And did I mention the car has no rust and no bondo? Please bid only if genuinely interested and are able to complete the transaction according to the auction terms. Zero or negative feedback bidders must contact me prior to bidding, otherwise your bids will be cancelled.Inspections prior to auction end are welcome and encouraged. Deposit is due at auction close, balance in 3 days via certified funds.Clear open OR title, ready for ownership transfer or export. I can assist with shipping logistics if needed.Any questions or concerns, please contact me prior to bidding. Thank you On Nov-19-17 at 12:04:31 PST, seller added the following information: I had the following comment from a knowledgeable Ebayer: "Do you realize that this car has the european climate control system swapped in too? The W116 SDs from 1978 to 1980 all had the automatic system that was total junk (because the automatic one was designed by Chrysler). This is a giant plus for this car." Thank you!