Heres my 1980 (VIN check says 1978 though) Series 1 300TD with 1,1 million kms driven. Was somewhat restored in 2001 and painted what looks lige Petrol Green and the interior is a mix of different cars, colours and series. The rust is comng back now, but ill keep it at bay.

Its my daily driver (145 kms every day) and the plan is to keep it driving and driving and driving. PPO naturally.

I have a complete rusty 1983 300 TD as donor vehicle for parts standing around.

Engine is well serviced but stock.

Plans for the engine is a moderate "classic" tuneup, but no real powermods here... I go for indestructibilty.. the reliabilty... not the power.

Engine plans (hope to end out at around 100HP with no torque loss):
Insulation of the manifolds (increase cold air cylinder filling)
Visco or electrical fan swap
Late style (e.g. w124) prechambers and 265 injectors set to 142.
Pump timing to match.
w124 style air-feed-tube.

Body (a tiny bit better CW):
AMG spoiler in front.
Adapted 124 engine bottom cover.

Other:
12mm fuel lines
Diesel Powered Water heater

Considering (up for debate):
Lighter Aluminum Underdrive Pulleys

Hope to learn som more about the OM617 engine and how to keep it running forever and maybe put out a bit more power through minor enchancements.

VIN data:

Model 300 TD
Chassis 12319012019026
Engine 617912 12 110474
Transmission 021113 23
Order 0 8 209 01994
Approx. year 1978
Dealer Kiel branch (209)
Interior Unknown code (034)
Paint
875 Unknown code
Options
420 automatic transmission, floor shift (с 01.01.1963)
430 headrests in the rear (с 01.01.1977)
440 tempomat (cruise control) (с 01.09.1975)
536 interference suppression without radio set and mechanically operated antenna (с 01.01.1970 по 31.07.1997)
550 trailer coupling (с 01.03.1965)

Cheers!

Jan

Thats a clean looking car good luck with it!

Purty.

lookin good!