Driving through Iowa City recently, a sight caught my eye – a well-preserved 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300SD. In a world increasingly dominated by modern SUVs and crossovers, spotting a classic S-Class like this is a refreshing reminder of Mercedes-Benz’s legacy of engineering and luxury. This particular model, though showing some signs of age on its exterior, immediately captivated me with a glimpse through its tinted windows – revealing an immaculate navy blue velour interior.
The W116 generation of the S-Class, produced from 1972 to 1980, is a significant chapter in Mercedes-Benz history. Introduced in the US market in 1974, the 1979 model year was nearing the end of this esteemed lineage. While some might favor the earlier S-Class models, the W116 holds its own charm, especially in the form of the 300SD. In 1979, Mercedes-Benz offered a range of S-Class models, including the 280SE, 450SEL, the high-performance 6.9, and the fuel-efficient 300SD.
What set the 1979 300SD apart was its turbodiesel engine, a pioneering move for a luxury sedan of its time. This marked the 300SD as the sole diesel offering in the S-Class lineup and the first Mercedes-Benz production car to feature a turbocharger. The engine was a 3.0-liter, five-cylinder, overhead-cam, fuel-injected diesel, paired with a four-speed automatic transmission and torque converter. While Mercedes-Benz’s brochures of the era curiously omitted horsepower and torque figures, the turbocharging undoubtedly provided a substantial boost in performance, making it surprisingly agile for a car of its size and class.
Stepping inside this 1979 300SD is like entering a time capsule of automotive luxury. While leather interiors were a common option in S-Class models, the navy blue velour in this particular car is a standout feature. Velour offers a unique level of comfort and plushness, creating an inviting and distinctly 1970s atmosphere. It’s a refreshing alternative to the more frequently seen saddle tan or tobacco brown leather, adding to the car’s unique appeal. Imagine cruising down the road in this classic, the epitome of comfort and understated elegance.
The 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300SD was built during what many consider the “brick house” era of Mercedes-Benz build quality. This was a time before the company heavily shifted its focus towards SUVs and crossovers, prioritizing robust engineering and meticulous craftsmanship in their sedans. As Mercedes-Benz themselves proclaimed in their 1979 brochure, “The 300SD Turbodiesel is perhaps the most un-Diesel-like passenger car ever built.” They emphasized that in terms of size, appearance, and luxurious interior, the 300SD was indistinguishable from its gasoline-powered S-Class counterparts, elevating the diesel engine to a new level of refinement and sophistication in the luxury car segment.
This chance encounter with a 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300SD serves as a reminder of the enduring appeal of classic Mercedes-Benz vehicles. It embodies a time when luxury was defined by solid engineering, premium materials, and understated elegance. Hopefully, this particular 300SD will find a new owner who appreciates its unique charm and ensures its preservation for future generations to admire. It’s a piece of automotive history that deserves to be cherished and enjoyed.
