Mercedes Diesel: 43 Years of Evolution Revealed

Classic W123 Takes on the Modern E220D in a Landmark Comparison

A fascinating study by German company Carwow pits a 1982 Mercedes 240 TD (W123) against the 2025 E220D 4Matic, revealing dramatic shifts in performance, efficiency, and luxury over 43 years.

Power and Performance Leaps

The vintage 240 TD, a symbol of its era, offered a modest 72 horsepower and 137 Nm of torque. In stark contrast, the contemporary E220D boasts a potent 197 horsepower and 440 Nm of torque, significantly boosted by a mild-hybrid system. Both vehicles feature four-cylinder diesel engines, highlighting the engineering advancements in power delivery.

Value Through the Decades

Adjusted for inflation, the 1982 Mercedes W123 would cost approximately €39,236 today. This figure is notably less than the €65,382 price tag of the brand-new E220D, illustrating a considerable increase in automotive pricing when accounting for economic changes.

Driving Dynamics: Then and Now

While the test pilot appreciated the classic Mercedes’ four-speed manual gearbox, a fifth gear was noted as desirable for highway cruising. The older model’s sound insulation lagged behind modern standards, though its overall comfort was described as “fantastic.”

Modern Comfort and Highway Prowess

The new Mercedes E220D excels on the highway, offering exceptional cabin silence and a superior level of comfort. However, the automatic transmission’s performance was critiqued, with the driver finding it less than optimal in its responses.

Fuel Efficiency Gains

Real-world testing demonstrated a significant improvement in fuel economy. The modern E220D averaged an impressive 5.1 liters per 100 kilometers, a marked improvement over the older model’s consumption of 7.9 liters per 100 km. This efficiency gain aligns with broader industry trends towards more economical powertrains, with the average fuel efficiency for new cars sold in the EU in 2023 being approximately 4.5 L/100 km according to the European Environment Agency.