1981 Mercedes-Benz 240D Joins DFW Car & Toy Museum Collection, Celebrating Automotive Reliability

The DFW Car & Toy Museum has acquired a 1981 Mercedes-Benz 240D for its Ron Sturgeon Collection, showcasing what many consider one of the most reliable automobiles ever produced. This addition represents more than just another classic car acquisition—it underscores the enduring value of engineering precision and longevity in an era of disposable consumer goods.

The Mercedes-Benz 240D, part of the renowned W123 chassis series, earned its reputation through unmatched durability and timeless design. Powered by a 2.4-liter OM616 diesel inline-four engine producing 67 horsepower and 97 lb-ft of torque, the vehicle became famous not for speed but for extraordinary longevity. The four-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel disc brakes completed a mechanical package engineered specifically for endurance, with many examples surpassing one million miles of service.

Inside, the cabin features durable Sienna MB-Tex upholstery with front bucket seats and a rear bench, reflecting the utilitarian luxury ethos that defined Mercedes-Benz during this period. The minimalist interior includes hand-crank windows, analog gauges with a 100-mph speedometer, coolant temperature and oil pressure indicators, and an analog clock. Documentation shows the car's speedometer was replaced in 1996 at approximately 50,000 miles, with the current odometer reading 61,000 miles, indicating careful preservation throughout its history.

Ron Sturgeon, founder of the DFW Car & Toy Museum, emphasized the vehicle's significance beyond surface appearances. The 240D may not scream luxury, but it defines it in terms of quality, dependability, and understated confidence, said Sturgeon. It's the kind of car you grow to admire not just for what it is—but for how long it lasts. This perspective resonates particularly in today's automotive market, where planned obsolescence often conflicts with consumer desires for lasting value.

The museum, which houses over 200 classic vehicles and 3,000 vintage toys and collectibles, continues to expand its offerings at its North Fort Worth location. Visitors can explore the collection at the facility located at 2550 McMillan Parkway, with additional information available through their website at https://dfwcarandtoymuseum.com. The acquisition demonstrates how automotive museums serve as living archives of engineering philosophy and cultural values, preserving vehicles that represent significant milestones in manufacturing and design.

For automotive enthusiasts and historians, the 240D's inclusion in the collection provides tangible evidence of Mercedes-Benz's commitment to quality during an era when diesel technology represented both innovation and practicality. The vehicle's global popularity stemmed from its ability to withstand harsh conditions and high mileage while maintaining operational integrity, qualities that remain relevant as consumers increasingly prioritize sustainability and long-term value in their purchasing decisions.