off topic-just bought a 81 mercedes 240 d Options

[rosenfe]

one owner,dealer serviced since new with all stamps in book.150k,ac,electric sunroof,perfect body and interior,4 speed.its a simple car,just like a 914.no computers,will run forever.

[mangrum]

one owner,dealer serviced since new with all stamps in book.150k,ac,electric sunroof,perfect body and interior,4 speed.its a simple car,just like a 914.no computers,will run forever.

In one respect it is even simpler than a 914 because there are no spark plugs and associated part like coil, etc. Combustion is provided via compression so maintenance, like oil changes, are important. Motors will also out last 914-4 motors if well maintained.

Door locks and engine shutoff use vacuum. If there is a leak in the system your engine may not shut off via the key (switch has a vacuum line). There is a manual shutoff switch under the hood in case.

I had a 1982 300D Turbo. The engines are known as "bullet proof" and will go forever if well maintained. After 325K and two transmission I gave up. I have not had a Mercedes that did not have auto trans issues. The attitude of the Engineers back in the day was "people should learn to drive a stick." I think they still have that attitude.