1981 Mercedes-Benz 300 D Estate S123 - Turbo Diesel Conversion
Highlights
- 'OM617' turbo diesel conversion
- Turbocharger fully refurbished, we are told
- Only one former registered keeper from new
- Dry-climate example, having spent most of its life in Cyprus
- Right-hand drive example, used as a daily driver
The Appeal
The Mercedes-Benz S123 estate is among the most celebrated load-luggers of its era. Combining the W123 platform's legendary build quality with genuine everyday usability, the model has earned a devoted following among enthusiasts who value substance over show. This seven-seat example raises the stakes further, having been upgraded from its original OM616 non-turbo diesel to the OM617 3.0-litre turbo diesel, with the conversion reportedly carried out using the correct drivetrain components to retain proper ratios.
Having spent the majority of its life in Cyprus's dry Mediterranean climate, this 300 estate benefits from the kind of preservation that is increasingly difficult to find in northern European examples. Currently used as a daily driver, this is an estate that can be enjoyed immediately as a usable, honest classic.
Ordered new in Ireland in 1981, it has had just one former registered keeper and has been consistently maintained as a cherished family car, we are told. With only minor cosmetic attention needed, this 300 TD presents a compelling opportunity for those seeking a usable, well-preserved classic estate with honest provenance.
Key Information
- Mileage: 170,273 miles indicated (odometer currently inoperative)
- Country of registration: Cyprus
- Technical inspection status: valid until 29 July 2026
- Technical specs: 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-5 diesel (OM617) producing 123hp paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission
- Paperwork: no specific documentation detailed by the vendor
The Detail
- Originally fitted with the OM616 non-turbo diesel; upgraded to the OM617 3.0-litre turbo diesel with correct drivetrain components
- Attractive blue paintwork and 16-inch BBS wheels
- Two-tone blue fabric interior
- Roof rails and sunroof equipped
- Updated Alpine stereo with Bluetooth
- Originally ordered and purchased new in Ireland in 1981 by the first owner, who lived between Ireland and Cyprus
- Fully registered in Cyprus in 2005, where it has spent most of its life
- The vendor states the engine runs well
- Turbocharger refurbished and reported to spool smoothly, building boost as expected
- Gearbox performs well overall, though second gear can occasionally crunch during shifts
- The vendor reports the suspension is in very good condition
- One fender repainted due to a minor parking lot scratch; the rest of the bodywork retains its original paint
- A few minor stone chips and age-related scratches present on the body
- A small rust bubble beginning to form on the rear door
- The vendor states the interior presents in very good condition with no cigarette burns, tears, or significant damage
- Seats professionally re-trimmed with material closely matching the original specifications
- Air conditioning reported to be in working order
- All electrical equipment functioning except the hydraulic central locking system, which is currently inoperative
- Always owned by non-smokers
BEFORE YOU BUY
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