I recently stopped by a wrecking yard that specializes in wrecked exotic
cars. I've seen many very expensive cars that were totaled by the insurance
company.

I was pleased to see a 1983 300D Turbo Diesel there. With the exception of a
crunched rear fender it is in excellent shape. No cracks in the dash, no
rust, the rubber is good and a spotless engine compartment. Other than
tarnished engine parts, it probably didn't look much better on the show room
floor. I couldn't decide if it was restored or original. It is a yellowish
cream color with blue interior and a black dash.

The engine fired up right away with little or no smoke and idled smoothly at
about 750 RPM's.

I happen to have a parts car that I could cut to replace the damaged fender.

I am trying to get an idea of what the car would be worth if it did not get
wrecked. It will have a salvage title because it was totaled by the
insurance company even though the damage is not that bad.

Also, how do I check the engine to see if it is as good as it look.

Thanks