As an automotive enthusiast, stumbling upon a gem from the past is always a delightful experience. Recently, while in Iowa City, my attention was captured by a vehicle that perfectly embodies classic luxury and engineering prowess: a 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300SD. This encounter sparked a renewed appreciation for the W116 generation S-Class, and particularly this turbodiesel variant.
My affection for classic cars is only rivaled by my fondness for supper clubs, those quintessential midwestern dining establishments. Interestingly, my recent visit to a reopened supper club in Iowa coincided with this Mercedes sighting. These supper clubs, reminiscent of the 1950s through 70s, share a similar timeless appeal with vehicles like the 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300SD.
The W116 series, produced from 1972 to 1980, holds a special place in Mercedes-Benz history. For me, memories of the past are intertwined with this model. Growing up, family trips often involved passing through Iowa City, and dinners at the Highlander supper club were a cherished tradition. During those times, seeing elegant Mercedes-Benz sedans was not uncommon, and the 1979 300SD fits perfectly into that nostalgic picture.
What truly captivated me about this particular 1979 300SD was its navy blue velour interior. While many S-Classes from this era feature leather upholstery, often in tan or brown, this velour option exudes a unique and inviting plushness. It’s the kind of interior that makes you want to sink into the seats and enjoy a comfortable cruise.
While the exterior of the car could benefit from some cosmetic attention, the interior appeared remarkably well-preserved, almost like stepping back in time. The advertisement mentioned it had recently been driven from Colorado to Iowa, suggesting its reliable mechanics and robust build quality, a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz vehicles of that era.
The 1979 model year was significant as it was among the last for the W116 generation, which debuted in 1973. In 1979, Mercedes-Benz offered four distinct models in their flagship sedan range: the 280SE, 300SD, 450SEL, and the high-performance 6.9. The 300SD held a unique position as the sole diesel offering within the S-Class lineup and, importantly for 1979, it featured a turbocharger.
The engine in the 1979 300SD was a 3.0-liter, five-cylinder, fuel-injected, overhead-cam turbodiesel, paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. While period brochures may not have emphasized horsepower figures, the turbocharging was a notable advancement, providing enhanced performance compared to naturally aspirated diesel engines.
This era of Mercedes-Benz is often lauded for its exceptional build quality, a time before the brand heavily shifted towards SUVs and crossovers. As Mercedes-Benz themselves proclaimed in their brochures, the 300SD Turbodiesel aimed to be “un-Diesel-like,” achieving parity with its gasoline-powered counterparts in terms of luxury and refinement.
The 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300SD represents a blend of diesel efficiency and S-Class luxury. It’s a car that deserves to be preserved and appreciated. Seeing this particular example rekindled my admiration for the W116 generation and the enduring appeal of classic Mercedes-Benz engineering. Hopefully, it will find a new owner who recognizes its value and ensures it remains a cherished piece of automotive history.
Encountering this 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300SD was a reminder of the timeless elegance and engineering excellence that defined Mercedes-Benz during this period. It’s a classic that continues to impress and captivate automotive enthusiasts today.
The 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300SD is more than just a car; it’s a symbol of an era when luxury and robust engineering were paramount. Its rediscovery is a testament to the lasting legacy of Mercedes-Benz and the enduring appeal of well-crafted classic automobiles.
(Note: The image of the “Highland Supper Club prime rib dinner” and the “1979 Mercedes-Benz 300SD ad” were omitted as they were less directly relevant to showcasing the car itself, as per instructions to prioritize relevant images. The focus is on the 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300SD.)
