The 1980s marked a significant era for diesel-powered Mercedes-Benz vehicles in the United States. Mercedes-Benz, a pioneer in diesel technology since the 1936 260D, capitalized on this trend by offering a range of durable, efficient diesel models tailored for American buyers. These vehicles combined the brand’s reputation for luxury and engineering with the practical benefits of diesel power—high torque, impressive fuel economy, and longevity.

Mercedes-Benz 240D (W123) – Introduced 1977

The 240D, part of the W123 series, was already a staple in the U.S. market by the 1980s, having been introduced in 1977. It was powered by the company’s OM616 engine, a 2.4-liter inline-four diesel. This naturally aspirated engine produced 67 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 97 lb-ft of torque at 2,400 rpm. While modest in power, the 240D excelled in fuel economy, achieving around 25-28 mpg combined, a standout figure for its time. The 240D’s simplicity and reliability made it a favorite among taxi operators and frugal buyers, though its leisurely acceleration limited its appeal for performance seekers.

Mercedes-Benz 300D (W123) – Introduced 1977

The 300D, which was also a part of the W123 lineup, debuted in 1977 alongside the 240D. Initially equipped with the OM617 engine, a 3.0-liter inline-five diesel, it delivered 80 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 127 lb-ft of torque at 2,400 rpm. In 1982, a turbocharged version, the 300D Turbodiesel, was introduced, boosting output to 121 horsepower at 4,350 rpm with 170 lb-ft of torque at 2,400 rpm. Fuel economy ranged from 22-25 mpg for the naturally aspirated model and slightly lower, around 20-23 mpg, for the turbo variant (due to its added power). The 300D Turbodiesel offered a compelling blend of efficiency and performance, making it a benchmark for luxury diesel sedans.

Mercedes-Benz 300SD (W126) – Introduced 1978

The 300SD, introduced in 1978 as part of the W126 S-Class lineup, was a groundbreaking model—the world’s first turbocharged diesel S-Class. It featured the OM617.951, a 3.0-liter inline-five turbodiesel, producing 121 horsepower at 4,350 rpm and 170 lb-ft of torque at 2,400 rpm. By 1986, the updated 300SDL (still W126) adopted the OM603, a 3.0-liter inline-six turbodiesel, offering 148 horsepower at 4,600 rpm and 201 lb-ft of torque at 2,400 rpm. Fuel economy averaged 20-22 mpg for the 300SD and slightly better, 22-24 mpg, for the 300SDL. The 300SD and 300SDL catered to luxury buyers seeking efficiency without sacrificing refinement.

Mercedes-Benz 190D (W201) – Introduced 1984

The 190D, launched in 1984 as part of the compact W201 series, brought diesel efficiency to a smaller package. It used the OM601, a 2.2-liter inline-four diesel, generating 73 horsepower at 4,600 rpm and 96 lb-ft of torque at 2,800 rpm. In 1987, a 2.5-liter OM602 variant arrived, increasing output to 90 horsepower at 4,600 rpm and 114 lb-ft of torque at 2,800 rpm. Fuel economy was exceptional, with the 2.2-liter achieving 30-34 mpg and the 2.5-liter slightly less at 28-32 mpg. The 190D appealed to buyers prioritizing economy over power, cementing Mercedes’ dominance in the diesel market.