So I am pretty much had it with the spousal unit's PT cruiser (dang thing wouldn't turn off a few days ago) It is just so over computerized !
So I have an 83 300CD that I am enjoying, but finding somewhat challenging to get all the bugs out of.
The question:
If I am willing to spend a bit more for reliability (perhaps simplicity?) what MB diesel would you guys recommend for 'the wife'? (or for that matter 'the daughter')?
Thanks Alberta Luthier

You're in Canada so you have a range Euro models that are not common in the US.

A 90-93 300D 2.5 is a good balance of modern and simple.

Sixto
93 300SD

My wife drives a 240D, which I think is an appropriate "balance of modern and simple," with the emphasis on simple.

Just about any well maintained diesel can be reliable, it's just a matter of how "modern" you want it to be. I don't believe age is the critical factor, it's all about condition. If she wants more comforts, look for a good W124.

Good spot I REALLY should have mentioned that I am in Canada.
Was looking at another post just now where the fella is currently doing mechanical work and fighting the mosquitos.
It was +15 Cel today (about +59 F) and will be -11C tonight (+12.5F)
I figuire she can drive the old Chev Caprice when it is-25 or colder which isn't too often in southern Alberta.
Is the 2.5 a good motor? Another site says it's a 602.962 but not a turbo?
As tough and reliable as the older turbo 5 cyls?
Thanx for your input,
Alberta luthier

A Euro 250D probably won't have a turbo. A US 300D 2.5 has a turbo.

It's a solid little mill with none of the vices of the 6 cyl variants. Some are known to slip the timing chain and all the fun that entails. It's cheap insurance to roll in a new chain and cam sprocket if there's no documentation that it's been done.

The 60x engines have difficulty starting even in mild weather when the glow system is inoperative but with a glow system in good shape they start more easily than 61x engines in cold weather.

Sixto
93 300SD

Sorry for going off topic, but a quick question, Do you build guitars alberta luthier? Or is that a last name thing?

__________________
"spreading a trail of obnoxious where ever we go"
1981 300sd w/ 341,500 miles

http://www.wecrash.com/pics/ddda_banner.gif

It is perhaps a silly way to try to feed a family but yup that is my day job.
Certainly not going to be able to buy her a new 320cdi.......(or me ( sigh)
Alberta Luthier

Depends upon the sort of wife in question. I would recommend a 240D stick as simple and reliable, but not much for creature comforts and geegaws that some ladies might like.

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80 300SD (129k mi) 82 240D stick (193k mi)77 240D auto - stick to be (153k mi) 85 380SL (145k mi) 89 BMW 535i 82 Diesel Rabbit Pickup (374k mi) 91 Jetta IDI Diesel (155k mi) 81 VW Rabbit Convertible Diesel 70 Triumph Spitfire Mk III (63kmi)66 Triumph TR4a IRS (90k mi)67 Ford F-100 (??)