prior to jumping into a 300D/CD...questions

I have some questions about merceds diesels for you experts!

I know the Mercedes is a long-lived automobile. I know theyre safe. What i want to know is if it is wise to buy a 1979(the only diesel ive seen locally for a long time) 300D.

The car apparently needed a starter repair a while back and the owner decided to never do it, so its in his driveway. he purchased the new starter and just never installed it.

i am mechanically inclined, but having such a new motorcoach(98 dodge) has spoiled me on oil changes and tire rotations being the only services needed! I am currently finishing up the restoration of a nice little 65 Volkswagen and i must say i favor the german ways of building automobiles. the chrysler is ok, but the vw just screams charm and all.

is the starter an intensive procedure? will i be able to hitch a ride and just get it on? ive never even seen an MB diesel engine in person, nor even installed a starter;) you can email or IM me at [email protected] and i would prefer that, as i need to really talk about it with someone before jumping in! thanks for your time!