The search for a classic Mercedes-Benz often leads down intriguing paths, and recently, I stumbled upon a potential gem: a 1984 Benz. Following up on a lead, despite initially misplacing the contact information, persistence paid off when I revisited the location and secured the phone number. A preliminary inspection revealed no immediate cause for concern, notably the absence of any fluid leaks beneath the vehicle – always a positive sign when evaluating a car of this age.
Upon contacting the owner, I spoke with a woman who shared the car’s history. It belonged to her late husband and served as his reliable daily commuter, clocking sixty miles round trip on highway speeds. She recounted purchasing it as a birthday gift for him from its original owner, emphasizing its consistent Mercedes-Benz dealership servicing. For the past two years, however, it has been garaged since his passing. Prior to considering a sale, she proactively took the car to a local Mercedes-Benz specialist – the same trusted shop I utilize for my own 1985 380SE – for a thorough check-up. The mechanic reportedly gave it a clean bill of health, confirming it to be in perfect running order after addressing a detached AC compressor component. Despite being the first to inquire, she mentioned the car’s discreet location and less sought-after color might be contributing to its slower sale. Interestingly, despite its age, the car boasts zero rust, though it does bear the subtle marks of a past hailstorm, a minor cosmetic detail from a storm in May 2002, which, given the car’s color, is barely noticeable and of no concern to me.
The owner did mention that the 1984 Benz might exhibit some initial smoke, attributable to its prolonged period of inactivity. While hoping this is merely typical diesel smoke and not indicative of a more serious head gasket issue, the fact that it completed a 60-mile round trip to the mechanic and back without incident is reassuring. Presumably, any significant head gasket problem would have been flagged during the service. Her point about diesels occasionally smoking is valid and highlights my need to refresh my knowledge base specifically regarding older Mercedes-Benz diesels to accurately assess the car.
The asking price is $1800, and she seems firm on it. This price point, combined with the described history and condition, almost feels too good to be true. Concerns about potential head gasket issues naturally arise – would coolant in the oil be a telltale sign? And how should the transmission perform in a 190D compared to my 380SE? I recall the 380SE having firm 1-2 shifts, with subsequent shifts being smoother. Should I anticipate similar shift characteristics in this potentially new, smaller Mercedes? An in-person inspection is scheduled for tomorrow afternoon. If it lives up to its description, I might soon be adding a 1984 Benz to my collection – even if it is considered the “baby Benz.”
