MERCEDES 208 D (1996)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 189 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
78%
Total Tests (2024)
189
Avg Mileage
156,559 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,050
Is the 1996 MERCEDES 208 D reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the MERCEDES brand average of 87%.
At 28 years old, 78% of MERCEDES 208 Ds from 1996 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 189 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 156,559 miles.
How does the 1996 MERCEDES 208 D compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 1996 MERCEDES 208 D has 156,559 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 207,200 miles for a 28-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
How much does a 1996 MERCEDES 208 D cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
MERCEDES 208 D by Year
Checking a specific MERCEDES 208 D?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 1996 MERCEDES 208 D
The 1996 MERCEDES 208 D is a large car with a 2299cc diesel engine. 189 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 1996, the average MOT pass rate is 75%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 156,559 miles at 28 years old, MERCEDES 208 D owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
1996 MERCEDES 208 D Fuel Costs
The 2299cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 1996 MERCEDES 208 D?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,050 (£171/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 78% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MERCEDES 208 D Reliability Trend
Newer MERCEDES 208 Ds show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 4 percentage points.
Buying a Used 1996 MERCEDES 208 D
At 28 years old, the MERCEDES 208 D is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age.
Alternatives to the 1996 MERCEDES 208 D
The MERCEDES 208 D is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel large cars from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER (1998) 69% pass rate (-9%) from 12,811 tests
- LAND ROVER DEFENDER (1997) 76% pass rate (-2%) from 10,084 tests
- FIAT DUCATO (1998) 71% pass rate (-7%) from 3,841 tests
- LAND ROVER DISCOVERY (1998) 77% pass rate (-1%) from 3,539 tests