1983 Mercedes W123 200 Saloon
5 Speed Manual
White with Blue Cloth Interior
Only 95k Miles
Has had the following work completed:
* Full Service - Oil, Oil Filter, Air Filter, Fuel Filter, Spark Plugs
* Carburettor Adjusted and Tuned
* New Thermostat
* Replacement Viscous Fan Coupling
* New Engine Mount
* New Inlet Manifold Gasket
* New Mercedes-Benz Bonnet Badge
* New Front & Rear Number Plates
I have always wanted one of these and finally got one a couple of months back. When I first got it, it would cut out randomly and then flood the engine, taking a while before it would crank up again. The idle was very rough and the car would hesitate. Since buying, I have had the above work done and now the car runs and drives ok, and isn't cutting out like before. Please remember it is 34 years old, so it won't idle as smooth as your new E Class!
It's a heavy old motor with a 109 BHP engine, so it isn't going to win you any races - it wafts along more like a boat. But, it puts a smile on my face every time I get in and drive it and still gets pleasant comments from people. It's a Merc which has a lot of charm. From an era where it truly meant something to own a Mercedes.
Runs and rives well. Starts first time. Engine sounds smooth when revved, with no knocking sounds. No overheating - temperature sits around the half way point.
Pulls well and every gear engages as it should. Clutch and gearbox are fine, with no crunches when changing gear. The long gear change throw is more akin to a Massey Ferguson tractor!
Suspension is pretty solid for the age - it does a good job in soaking up all the bumps and has the classic 80s Mercedes ride (genuinely puts new machinery to shame).
All 4 tyres are matching Barum brand, with decent tread on each one.
Bodywork looks presentable from a distance, but it's a 34 year old Classic Mercedes, so it will need some TLC if you want it perfect. Sunroof has rust around it (does not leak). NSR wheel arch has corroded and the mudflap has fallen off (temporary held in place). Various marks and blemishes around the body. A few rust scabs here and there. But, it is generally a very solid car and useable as is.
Interior is in solid condition and has worn the age very well. No major rips or tears, but the driver's seat bolster has wear. Rear seats have some white stains, which should shampoo outing the whole interior could benefit from a deep clean to bring it back to it's former glory. The seats adjust fine in all directions, and the cabin still feels very solid and well put together - a testament to the Mercedes quality of the time.
Everything works as it should. Windows are manual, so no switches or mechanisms to fail. Heaters are fine, and warm up the car nicely (although you would be roasted in this weather!). The dashboard bulbs need replacing, as they are currently not working. Ignition barrel was damaged in the previous ownership, so a push button start and ignition kill switch have been fitted under the dashboard (a new ignition barrel and keys are included).
I am thinning down my collection due to saving up for a house deposit, hence why some of my cars are for sale.
This is a car that can be used as a daily, an ongoing project that can be done here and there or for a full on restoration. The new owner can decide what route they want to go down.
Running examples of these that are not total rot boxes are becoming increasingly rare, and their prices are only going one way. The CE Coupe and Estate (TE) models are already cult classics, and I believe these will follow suit.
The car is located at my parent's place in Wellingborough, Northants, NN8
Please call me on 07984 395400