The DFW Car & Toy Museum has expanded its Ron Sturgeon Collection with the addition of a 1981 Mercedes-Benz 240D, representing the W123 chassis series known for exceptional durability and engineering precision. This diesel sedan joins over 200 classic vehicles and 3,000 vintage toys at the museum, which recently relocated to a 150,000-square-foot facility in North Fort Worth. The acquisition underscores the enduring appeal of vehicles designed for long-term reliability rather than temporary trends, serving as an important educational resource for visitors interested in automotive history.
The 240D features a 2.4-liter OM616 diesel inline-four engine producing 67 horsepower and 97 lb-ft of torque, paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. While not designed for speed, the vehicle earned worldwide recognition for its ability to outlast competitors, with disc brakes on all four wheels completing its endurance-focused mechanical package. The car's current odometer shows 61,000 miles, though documentation indicates the speedometer was replaced in 1996 when the original had approximately 50,000 miles, demonstrating the vehicle's remarkable preservation and maintenance history.
Inside, the cabin showcases durable Sienna MB-Tex upholstery with front bucket seats and a rear bench, reflecting the minimalist comfort standards of the 1980s. The dashboard features classic analog gauges including a 100-mph speedometer, coolant temperature, oil pressure, and fuel level indicators, along with an analog clock and aftermarket stereo. The model maintains its original utilitarian luxury character with hand-crank windows, heating system, and locking glove compartment, providing visitors with an authentic experience of automotive design from that era.
Ron Sturgeon, founder of the DFW Car & Toy Museum, emphasized the vehicle's significance beyond superficial luxury. The museum, which offers free admission and parking at its new location, provides detailed information about its collections through its official website at https://dfwcarandtoymuseum.com. Sturgeon noted that the 240D represents automotive quality and dependability that transcends decades, making it an important addition to the museum's educational mission focused on preserving automotive heritage.
As automotive technology evolves toward electrification and digital interfaces, the 240D serves as a reminder of engineering principles that prioritized longevity and mechanical simplicity. The museum's collection, accessible Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, now includes this benchmark of automotive endurance that continues to influence modern vehicle design philosophy. This addition provides context for understanding how past engineering achievements inform current automotive development, particularly in areas of durability and sustainable design.
