No Way That’s Factory? 1976 Mercedes-Benz 220D Pickup
This next car comes as a tip from Dave in Tampa who writes: Something you didn’t know existed, I’ll bet. I examined the photos with great curiosity … until I looked at the price. Oh well, whatever. Yes, whatever. The price is nuts. But this must be a custom El Caminoized Benz…right? No way. Did Mercedes-Benz really make a double-cab-style W114 pickup in Argentina? It seems that some of the internet agrees with the “factory” origin of the W114 pickup. Find this 1976 Mercedes-Benz 220D Pickup offered for $70,000 in Miami, FL via pickupbook mercedesplace.
From the seller:
1976 Mercedes-Benz pick up 220 d
$70,000
Listed 2 days ago2 days ago in Miami, FL
About this vehicle
Driven 1,800 miles
Manual transmission
Exterior color: Red · Interior color: Black
Fuel type: Diesel
Excellent condition
Clean title
This vehicle has no significant damage or problems.Seller’s description
For Sale: Classic 1976 Mercedes-Benz 220D/8 Double Cab PickupOverview:
This 1976 Mercedes-Benz 220D Pickup is a rare gem, combining classic German engineering with the functionality of a double cab pickup. Perfect for collectors or those seeking a unique vehicle with vintage charm and practicality.Features:
Engine: 2.2L inline-four diesel engine, fully rebuilt with only 3,000 km of use, known for its durability and efficiency.
Transmission: 4-speed manual transmission, offering a hands-on driving experience.
Mileage: Approximately 3,000 km since the engine rebuild, showcasing its longevity and reliability.
Exterior: Classic white paint with minimal wear, featuring timeless Mercedes-Benz design elements. The body is in excellent condition, with no significant rust or dents.
Interior: Black leather seats in good condition, a clean and functional dashboard, and a spacious cabin for a comfortable ride.
Pickup Bed: Sturdy and spacious, perfect for carrying loads. The bed has been well-maintained, with no major scratches or damage.
Model: Mercedes-Benz 220D/8 Double Cab Pickup
Engine: 2200ccm, 60HP
Paint and Interior: Original paint and interior fittings
Wheels: 15″ wheels
Seating: Full-length bench seat
Production: One of only 559 ever built, not customized, original ex works
Colors Available: Blue, orange, yellow, red, and whiteCondition:
This vehicle has been well-preserved and maintained, with regular servicing and care. It runs smoothly, and all mechanical and electrical components are in working order. It’s a reliable daily driver or a standout addition to any classic car collection.Location and Transport:
The vehicle is located in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Transportation can be arranged easily, quickly, and at a low cost.Documentation:
Original manuals and documentation are available.
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Now that I know there are single-cab trucklets built on the W115 chassis in South America, I’m tempted to pull a Klaus Kinski and head there for my own ill-fated and likely catastrophic Fitzcarraldo adventure.
Add on the cost of transport, import fees and taxes, and a bit of routine maintenance and repairs and it still pencils out to be a better investment and more usable pickup than a Cybertruck. Not to mention premium build quality and superior manufacturer and dealer support when it comes to parts and service. Want to receive attention with positive reactions for your new truck instead of thumbs down or middle fingers? Buy this Benz.
You’re singing the siren song of my people.
Please read the ad closer:
“The vehicle is located in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Transportation can be arranged easily, quickly, and at a low cost.”
All the photos back up the claims that the car is in Argentina too – the neighborhood looks nothing like anything in Miami, and the car is wearing ’95-2016 Argentina plates. The Renault in the background – not sold in the US – is wearing 2016+ Argentinian plates.
The price is nuts too, but unlike the wild prices on Miami FB Marketplace for cars in Cuba, it is not state inflated: https://www.npr.org/sections/parallels/2014/01/09/261111796/cuba-land-of-the-250-000-family-sedan
I wonder what happened to the cabin and rear quarter tooling. These are the only real major hurdles preventing someone from taking a far cheaper home-market W114/5 and making a close replica to one of these and still be ahead ~$50,000 in the process.