Estimate shipping costs

Mercedes-Benz 240D 1973: A diesel icon in model car

The 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240D reproduced by Minichamps is a faithful testament to German automotive innovation of the 1970s. This 1:43 scale model car accurately captures the timeless elegance of the diesel saloon that revolutionized the automotive market of the time.

This collector's item is aimed at classic car enthusiasts and collectors keen to acquire models that represent the major technological developments in the European automotive industry.

Characteristics of the model car

  • Model: Mercedes-Benz 240D
  • Brand: Mercedes-Benz
  • Year: 1973
  • Scale: 1/43rd
  • Color: Green
  • Manufacturer: Minichamps
  • Reference: 400 034001
  • Protective case included: Yes

The original model: pioneer of passenger diesel

The Mercedes-Benz 240D debuted in 1973 as part of the W115 model range, marking a milestone in the widespread adoption of diesel engines for passenger vehicles. Powered by a 2.4-liter diesel engine developing 65 horsepower, this four-door saloon offered an economical alternative to traditional gasoline engines.

Its design emphasized robustness and fuel economy, characteristics that established its reputation among a demanding professional clientele. The 240D was distinguished by its remarkably low fuel consumption and exceptional longevity, qualities that contributed significantly to the commercial success of Mercedes-Benz in the family sedan segment.

This diesel engine, initially developed for utility applications, found its first successful consumer application here, paving the way for future generations of diesel vehicles from the brand with the star.

Mercedes-Benz in the early 1970s

In the early 1970s, Mercedes-Benz consolidated its position as a European premium manufacturer under the leadership of visionary leaders. The German brand, with its technical heritage acquired since the origins of the automobile, developed an innovation strategy focused on passive safety and mechanical reliability .

The introduction of the 240D was part of this technologically avant-garde approach, with Mercedes-Benz anticipating the economic concerns linked to the 1973 oil crisis. The brand thus demonstrated its ability to adapt its industrial technologies to the emerging needs of the civilian automotive market.

This pivotal period saw Mercedes-Benz lay the foundations of its worldwide reputation for refined diesel engines , expertise that would later become one of its key competitive advantages in the European market.

A silent revolution on European roads

The history of the Mercedes-Benz 240D is closely linked to the emergence of a new ecological and economic awareness in the early 1970s. Engineers in Stuttgart initially developed this diesel engine to equip taxis, vehicles subject to particularly severe operating constraints.

The transformation of this utilitarian engine into a civilized mainstream motor required years of research to reduce the vibrations and noise characteristic of diesel engines of the time. The first road tests revealed a car capable of traveling more than 1,000 kilometers on a single tank of fuel, a remarkable performance that immediately attracted the interest of the specialist press.

Public reception was initially mixed, as European motorists still associated diesel with industrial vehicles. However, the 1973 oil crisis radically changed market perceptions, transforming the 240D into a symbol of modernity and economic intelligence . Sales literally took off, laying the foundations for Mercedes-Benz's lasting success in the diesel segment.

This green sedan quickly became the emblem of a European bourgeoisie keen to reconcile social standing and economic responsibility, perfectly embodying the pragmatic spirit of the 1970s.

Complete your collection of German model cars

This Mercedes-Benz 240D Minichamps naturally finds its place in a collection dedicated to large European sedans of the 70s . It harmonizes perfectly with other models in the Mercedes-Benz range, allowing us to trace the stylistic and technical evolution of the German brand.

Collectors passionate about the history of diesel cars will appreciate complementing it with model cars from the 1970s and classic sedan collections. This pivotal era in the automotive industry offers numerous opportunities for thematic enrichment.

Its Minichamps finish also makes it an excellent entry point for beginners wishing to discover the world of 1/43rd scale model cars , a scale favored by demanding collectors. This Mercedes-Benz 240D will appeal to both automotive history enthusiasts and fans of classic cars and prestigious foreign models .

Frequently Asked Questions

How to understand the scales of miniatures?

Scale indicates the reduction ratio between the real car and the miniature. For example, at 1:43 scale, each centimeter on the miniature corresponds to 43 centimeters on the real vehicle.

Concretely, a 1/18 scale Ferrari model is approximately 25-30 cm long, while in 1/43 scale it measures approximately 10 cm.

What scales are available?

Our model cars are mainly offered in 1/43, 1/24, 1/18 and 1/87 (HO) scales. The scale is always indicated in the product sheet.

The smaller the second number, the larger the model car (e.g. 1/18 is larger than 1/43).

Does the model car come with protection?

Yes, each model car is systematically delivered in its protective box. This box preserves the collectible value and protects your model car from dust and shocks.

How is my package protected during transport?

We package each order with the utmost care: bubble wrap, appropriate cushioning, and polystyrene. Your model car is perfectly secure during its journey.

What is the delivery time?

In-stock items are shipped within 24-48 hours. Please allow 2-3 business days for France via Colissimo or 4-5 days via Mondial Relay.

The model car is no longer in stock, when will you have it?

It's impossible for me to know exactly when I'll receive a new stock because I receive arrivals in dribs and drabs. Please contact me so I can keep you informed as soon as it's available.

What our customers say

Customer feedback and testimonials

Rémi Bargibant Vérifié
A huge choice
A huge choice, fast delivery, and very well protected miniatures. Additionally, the seller is very friendly 👍
il y a 1 jour
PATRICK DEBEAUQUENNE Vérifié
Serious Company
Serious company, providing good advice, ensuring follow-up on its shipments.
il y a 1 jour
Olivier GERBIER Vérifié
Perfect 👍
Excellent communication, precise tracking of the shipment, impeccable packaging. Very fast delivery.
il y a 1 jour
thierry delpech Vérifié
Good contact
Good contact, fast delivery, highly recommended!!
il y a 1 jour
Edwige Bailly Vérifié
I recommend with my eyes closed
I recommend with my eyes closed, very serious sellers, fast and very careful and protected shipping, perfect thank you again for everything
il y a 2 jours
Georges BRUGAT Vérifié
cordial seller
fast shipping, very good quality of the products, hyper protective packaging and excellent relations with the seller
il y a 2 jours
Papinou Vérifié
2CV enthusiast
I have already ordered several times the cars are well packed and conform to the description
il y a 3 jours
Reg Vérifié
Perfect
Speed, proactive regarding the choice of delivery point, care in packaging, value for money. I recommend.
il y a 3 jours
Christophe Fernandez Vérifié
Satisfied
I have placed several orders with him and I have never been disappointed, I recommend him.
il y a 3 jours
Celia Vérifié
Servicio rápido, cuidado excepcional y un toque muy humano
Hice el pedido el día 17 por la noche y el 18 ya estaba enviado. Teniendo en cuenta que hubo un fin de semana de por medio, la rapidez ha sido realmente admirable. Además, el seguimiento personalizado ha sido excelente: Bernard me ha escrito personalmente en cada fase del envío para mantenerme in...
il y a 1 semaine
Emanuel Mosè Seccia Vérifié
Really great service
Really great service, very helpful, the product is well made and you can see the attention to detail even in the packaging, very satisfied
il y a 1 semaine
BB Vérifié
I was looking for pink cars - my request fulfilled
I was looking for pink cars. Not finding any on the site, I made my request on the site one weekend and even on November 11. To my surprise, I received an immediate response. And new surprise, Bernard miniatures was able to supply me with the requested cars. Super fast delivery with extraordinary...
il y a 2 semaines