Mercedes-Benz (W123) 280E: Classic Drive

Because the W123-series Mercedes-Benz was highly popular in its heyday and the precursor to the E-Class, the model is, to many enthusiasts, the quintessential “old ‘Benz”. Is this the definitive “affordable classic” example of the Three-pointed Star?

For many car enthusiasts, this is the definitive classic Mercedes-Benz. Although the W123 isn’t a classic Mercedes-Benz in the same league as the multi-million dollar 300SL Gullwing, for example, it remains a highly desirable car, albeit in a different way. The W123 represents the solid build quality we’ve come to expect and appreciate from Mercedes-Benz during the production run of the W123 and its variants.

Mercedes-Benz W123 280E rear three-quarter view

The W123 range also offered Mercedes-Benz buyers a few variants of the model: sedan, station wagon and coupe. There was never a high-performance version, but that hasn’t stopped some enthusiasts from taking them racing! In the sedan line-up, the inline-6-powered 280E was the top-of-the-range derivative.

Specifications:

Model: 1983 Mercedes-Benz 280E (W123)
Engine: 2.7-litre, 6-cylinder, petrol
Power: 136 kW at 5 800 rpm
Torque: 240 Nm at 4 500 rpm
Transmission: 4-speed automatic, RWD
Weight: 1 475 kg
0-100 km/h: 10.8 sec
Top Speed: 195 kph
Price: About R200 000

Behind the well-aged ‘wheel

It is worth pointing out that this car has 200 000 km on the odo, and I have seen cars with less mileage that don’t look as good as this one.

The dark blue interior is a beautiful colour and presents a wonderful contrast to the white exterior. With so many modern cars being overbearingly grey or black inside, this blue hue truly stands out.

To my left is the centre armrest which further encourages you to relax behind the ‘wheel. There are a few places where this car is showing its patina, but nothing more than you would expect from it considering its age and mileage.

Through the steering wheel, I have a perfect view of the 3 large analogue dials, but it takes a few minutes to get used to the steering wheel which almost rests in your lap (the steering column is not adjustable).

The rest of the cabin is simple, with the ventilation controls above the transmission lever and the ignition to the left of the ‘wheel. Higher up and to the right, there is even a stalk for the cruise-control function.

The large ‘wheel (with power steering) makes manoeuvring easy and as I point the 280E towards Kalk Bay, the transmission moves quickly up the ratios before we settle into an 80 kph cruise. If you are used to some of today’s large, modern cars, you will be surprised by the relatively small footprint of the W123.

When you plant your foot on the accelerator pedal with gusto, the ‘Benz’s nose does pick up a little, and that is the same scenario when you turn into a corner at some speed. There is initial body lean, but then the car settles, offering an old-school sense of stability at the same time.

Move the lever from “D” to “S”, and the ‘box will hang on to gears longer and let the engine rev to over 5 000 rpm. The 6-cylinder mill becomes more vocal and the speed increases with some determination. However, after you’ve done that once or twice, it feels more natural to settle back into a cruise.

At the same time, it is good to understand the performance capabilities of the car, should you wish to use it. Furthermore, the Becker radio is still in place and there are also electric windows, all of which work. In the rear, 2 adults can be seated, although knee- and legroom is rather limited for taller occupants.

Summary

If you are considering a classic car that is useable, relatively affordable, which will resist depreciation and you could arguably use on a daily basis, it is hard to find fault with a W123-series 280E.

There are a few small things the new owner might want to attend to on the 42-year-old ‘Benz, but other than that, the car presents well. From behind the ‘wheel, the W123 flagship feels solid and sturdy, whether you are driving on the road, or shutting its doors (which shut with a reassuring thunk, not a clang). No wonder there are still so many W123s being used in North Africa, especially as taxis.

This example of the Mercedes-Benz W123 was supplied by MotoVillage outside Cape Town.

Search for a classic Mercedes-Benz on Cars.co.za

Find exclusive car-themed merchandise at the SentiMETAL Shop