Historic 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300SD Turbo Diesel Joins Museum Collection

The DFW Car & Toy Museum has added a historically significant 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300SD to the Ron Sturgeon Collection, marking an important acquisition that showcases automotive innovation from the late 1970s. This particular vehicle represents a milestone in automotive history as the world's first production turbocharged diesel sedan, combining luxury features with groundbreaking engineering that challenged conventional perceptions of diesel-powered vehicles.

The Astral Silver Metallic sedan features several European-spec modifications, including quad headlights and streamlined bumpers, along with functional amenities such as a sunroof, dual side mirrors, and power antenna. The vehicle's exterior shows signs of its extensive history, with pitting chrome on the right-front door handle indicating its well-traveled past. With over 212,000 miles on the odometer, this Mercedes-Benz demonstrates the remarkable durability that made the model legendary among automotive enthusiasts and engineers alike.

Under the hood, the 3.0-liter OM617A turbo diesel inline-five engine delivers 110 horsepower and 168 lb-ft of torque through a four-speed automatic transmission to the rear wheels. This powertrain configuration was revolutionary for its time, proving that diesel engines could provide both sophisticated performance and executive-level comfort. The vehicle's suspension has been upgraded with Bilstein shock absorbers, while braking is handled by power-assisted ventilated front and solid rear disc brakes.

Inside, the 300SD maintains its original luxury appointments, including a Becker Grand Prix stereo, automatic climate control, cruise control, power locks and windows, and classic analog instrumentation. Ron Sturgeon, founder of the DFW Car & Toy Museum, emphasized the vehicle's historical importance, stating that the 300SD represented a luxury pioneer that proved diesel could be both elegant and efficient. The museum's website at https://dfwcarandtoymuseum.com provides additional information about the collection and visiting hours.

This acquisition matters because it preserves a critical piece of automotive history that transformed industry standards for diesel engines in passenger vehicles. The 300SD's introduction marked a turning point where diesel technology moved beyond commercial applications to become a viable option for luxury automobiles, influencing subsequent generations of efficient yet powerful vehicles. The vehicle's display alongside over 200 rare and exotic cars and 3,000 vintage toys at the museum's North Fort Worth location at 2550 McMillan Parkway offers visitors insight into engineering innovations that continue to impact modern automotive design and sustainability efforts.