Mercedes Benz 1217

The type designation is arithmetic: the first digit gives the permissible gross weight in tonnes, the following ones the engine output in metric horsepower. A 508 D is rated at 5 tonnes and around 80 hp, a 608 D with the same engine at 6 tonnes. The "D" stands for diesel. Technically, then, less separates them than the numbers suggest — the 608 D is essentially a more highly rated 508 D.

Under the bonnet of most of these vehicles sits the OM 314: a four-cylinder inline engine of 3,758 cc with direct injection, rated at 80 or 85 hp depending on version. It was the most popular choice in the first T2 generation and also appears in the O 309 bus. Anyone hunting for parts still benefits: an engine used across several series stays supplied longer than a one-off.

In 1986 an entirely new second generation arrived, built until 1996 and delivered mainly with diesel engines. When buying used it is therefore worth checking the year: a complete redesign lies between the first and second generation, even though both go by T2.

Register entries in this class come largely from official registration data. They are reliable on dimensions and weights — equipment details of individual vehicles are, by their nature, not recorded there.