Description
The Mercedes-Benz 240 D was one of the most iconic diesel saloons ever produced by Mercedes-Benz and became a global symbol of durability, economy and mechanical longevity. Introduced in 1973 as part of the W123 series, the 240 D built directly on the reputation established by earlier diesel models, but refined the concept with improved comfort, safety and build quality. It quickly became one of the most recognisable and respected cars of its era.
Power came from a 2.4-litre inline four-cylinder diesel engine producing approximately 65 horsepower. While performance was modest, the engine delivered strong low-speed torque and exceptional fuel economy. Acceleration was slow by petrol-car standards, but the car excelled at steady cruising and continuous operation. The engine was designed to operate reliably under sustained load, making it ideal for long-distance driving, taxi service and demanding operating environments. A four-speed manual gearbox was standard, with an automatic transmission available and increasingly popular among buyers seeking relaxed driving.
The W123 platform represented a major step forward in Mercedes-Benz engineering. The body structure was exceptionally strong, with extensive attention paid to occupant safety through a rigid passenger cell and carefully engineered crumple zones. Suspension consisted of double wishbones with coil springs at the front and a rear semi-trailing arm layout with coil springs, delivering a comfortable ride and predictable handling even on poor road surfaces. Disc brakes at the front and rear provided dependable stopping power, a further improvement over earlier models.
Styling of the Mercedes-Benz 240 D was conservative, functional and instantly recognisable. Straight body lines, a tall glasshouse and an upright grille gave the car a solid, purposeful appearance. Chrome detailing was restrained, reinforcing the sense of durability rather than luxury. The design aged exceptionally well and became synonymous with reliability and professionalism across many markets.
Inside, the 240 D offered a spacious and extremely robust cabin. Materials were chosen for longevity rather than visual flair, with high-quality plastics, durable fabrics and solid switchgear. Seating was upright and supportive, designed for long hours behind the wheel. The dashboard layout was logical and uncluttered, with clear instrumentation and excellent visibility, reflecting Mercedes-Benz’s focus on ergonomics and ease of use.
In everyday use, the Mercedes-Benz 240 D earned a legendary reputation. It was particularly favoured by taxi operators, company fleets and private owners who covered high mileages. Many examples accumulated hundreds of thousands, and in some cases millions, of kilometres with routine maintenance. The engine’s tolerance for varying fuel quality and harsh conditions made it especially popular in export markets across Africa, the Middle East and South America.
Driving characteristics were calm and predictable. The car rewarded smooth, unhurried driving and mechanical sympathy rather than aggressive inputs. While overtaking required planning, the 240 D excelled in steady traffic and long-distance operation, where its stability, comfort and low fuel consumption were most apparent. The automatic version further enhanced its suitability as a relaxed long-distance cruiser.
The Mercedes-Benz 240 D played a crucial role in cementing Mercedes-Benz’s dominance in diesel passenger cars. It demonstrated that diesel engines could power comfortable, well-built executive saloons without compromise, influencing the design of future models such as the 300 D and later generations of Mercedes diesel vehicles.
Today, the Mercedes-Benz 240 D is widely regarded as one of the most durable production cars ever built. Well-preserved examples are valued for their honesty, engineering integrity and historical significance. As a symbol of an era when Mercedes-Benz engineered cars to last decades rather than model cycles, the 240 D remains a benchmark for longevity and a defining chapter in automotive history.