The Mercedes-Benz W123 is one of the most solid products that Germany has ever produced. It is therefore no big surprise that this late copy is still driving. Nevertheless, it can be put in the limelight partly because of its mileage and its condition.
As no-nonsense and indestructible as the Mercedes-Benz W123 looks, it is. As with its successor, Stuttgart had it well organized at the time when it came to build quality. The fact that this light blue 280 TE dates from 1986, the last year the W123 left the production line, only speaks more to his advantage. Only if the Benz had not been handled properly in the past 34 years, it could have ruined everything. All in all, it looks very neat, except for a small trace of some rust development around the emblem on the tailgate.
What makes it extra nice is that the 280 TE already has more than four tons on the counter. Thanks to Techzle reader Erwin Verweij, who took these photos and sent us, we can see this when we take a look at the instruments. Not an exorbitant position for this type of Mercedes, but many more modern cars can be jealous of it. Especially when the age and experience are barely visible.
Nevertheless, you may ask yourself what to avoid these days if you absolutely want to drive such an old car intensively. In the case of the 280 TE, that is not too bad. The 185 hp injection petrol engine, a six-in-line, was the crème de la crème at the time. Even by today’s standards, that is still quite a source of power. In just under 10 seconds the clock reads 100 km / h and you can then continue to 200 km / h. Obviously, the 1,600 kilo heavy Mercedes does like a nice sip of gasoline, but you can count on it that it still drives well.
Quite a convincing story to drive such a W123 in 2020, right? Apparently someone thought so earlier this month, because then this 280 TE was registered for the last time. A new owner, who can immediately hit the road with a fresh MOT. We believe that a few more barrels can be added.