1985 Mercedes-Benz 230E W123- Today’s Tempter

By: Alex Affat, Unique Cars magazine

Date: 21.07.2020

Notoriously bulletproof model makes for a cheap and confident entry-level classic

One of the most active segments in our classic car community is the entry-level segment, especially so in recent years as more and more people enter the classic car fold.

More than ever, people are looking for something old to keep in the garage for those sunny Sunday drives, but how far does $10,000 go these days?

Classic Mercedes-Benz is a good place to start, with reputations for outstanding durability, engineering and innovation – but that wasn’t always the case.

After World War II, Benz was on the verge of collapse but in a post-war climate where rivals weren’t as concerned with build quality or reliability, Benz focused heavily on cultivating a sense of brand identity and reputation through unprecedented mechanical robustness and superb engineering.

The W123 is one of the great representations of Benz’s once-fastidious standard of build.

The early E-class range was hugely expansive, with powerplants ranging from four and six-cylinder petrol engines (both carburetted and injected) as well as four and five-cylinder diesels to choose from. With sedans, coupes and wagon bodies available, there was seemingly something for every buyer.

W123s are famous for their ability to run the odometer well past 1,000,000 kilometres with basic and consistent maintenance; and with over 2.7 million of the things made during their lifecycle – they remain incredibly affordable with huge parts support.

This one we found for sale today is a July 1985 build, and is being sold by its third owner from new. The previous owner owned the vehicle for 25 years.

The vehicle is described as in completely original specification, down to the radio. The body is said to be straight and clean with significant mechanical replacements and repairs done over the last two years in order to maintain its original and reliable condition.

Recent works include new power steering seals, driveshaft output seals, steering damper, new radiator and a complete service carried out this past May.

The seller says that complete service history has been documented, and that the car would make an excellent club vehicle or even a capable classic daily driver.

You can find the 230E in South Australia and listed for $7,950.

Check out the full listing here!

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