I recently stopped by a wrecking yard that specializes in wrecked exotic cars. I've seen many very expensive cars that were totaled by the insurance company.
I was pleased to see a 1983 300D Turbo Diesel there. With the exception of a crunched rear fender it is in excellent shape. No cracks in the dash, no rust, the rubber is good and a spotless engine compartment. Other than tarnished engine parts, it probably didn't look much better on the show room floor. I couldn't decide if it was restored or original. It is a yellowish cream color with blue interior and a black dash.
The engine fired up right away with little or no smoke and idled smoothly at about 750 RPM's.
I happen to have a parts car that I could cut to replace the damaged fender.
I am trying to get an idea of what the car would be worth if it did not get wrecked. It will have a salvage title because it was totaled by the insurance company even though the damage is not that bad.
Also, how do I check the engine to see if it is as good as it look.
Thanks