300-24, saloon and coupe, E300 24 valve diesel estate
if its a canister type of filter at the back of the engine then a screwdriver hammered through it is enough to slacken it for removal. If the filter is at the front of the engine and covered with a plastic cap then yes you will need the 76mm socket as posted above.
It's a 2 ltr 2 cam unit. I asked at Halfords but all that they had was a self-tightening wrench and it looked like it would crush the plastic housing.
I have a belt oil filter wrench, similar to the chain one but there isn't enough space between the inlet manifolds and steering pump to use it. You can only access it from above. Will ask about that socket...
I bought a oil filter large socket from MB some time ago partno W1035890209 00 works fine. If your car dealer denies all knowledge try MERCEDES COMMERCIALS.