Description

The Mercedes-Benz 123 series—or W 123 for short—was a line of passenger cars produced by Daimler-Benz AG between November 1975 and January 1986, with a total production run of 2.7 million vehicles. It was the predecessor to the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and belonged to the upper-medium vehicle segment.

Eighteen months after the launch of the sedan, the two-door coupé version—featuring a slightly shortened wheelbase (C 123)—was introduced.

Delivery times for the new W 123 stretched to as long as three years; consequently, buyers sometimes paid more than 5,000 DM above the list price for new car contracts just to get their hands on the model sooner. Even nearly-new cars were frequently resold at a premium.

Rectangular halogen headlights distinguished the top-tier models—the 300 TD Turbodiesel, the 280/280 E, and the coupés. Visually, these models could also be identified by chrome-accented rubber strips beneath the taillights, matte-black ventilation grilles in front of the windshield, and Zebrano wood trim on the dashboard. The coupé lacked a B-pillar, creating an elegant, uninterrupted side profile.

This series was the first to feature a reinforced passenger cell, high-strength steels, a crumple zone, and reinforced doors.

In 1980, the 123 series recorded a total of 202,252 registrations, while the VW Golf saw 200,892 new registrations.

The series established Mercedes' reputation for absolute reliability. That was likely the very reason why production was eventually discontinued. Series production of the C 123 ended in the summer of 1985. A total of 99,884 vehicles of this type were built between June 1977 and August 1985.

The vehicle offered here was purchased by my father in 1980; I was present at the time of delivery. The original order and delivery documents are available. The vehicle is in excellent condition, and everything works properly.

It features a rare column-mounted gear selector combined with an automatic transmission.

The engine, transmission, rear axle assembly, chassis frame, intake manifold, and carburetor have never required replacement. The speedometer cable was replaced at 135,000 km, and the driver's door was replaced in 2025. The interior upholstery—in the "Date" (Dattel) color—is original.

As shown in the photos, the hood hinge mounts, battery tray, and engine bay are free of rust.

In 1998, the radio and antenna were replaced with a model that included a telephone; the original Becker radio is included.

Condition & Registration

Condition category
Authentic
MOT
MOT until
03/2027
Historical license plate
Registered
Ready to drive
Accident free

Self assessments

Engine (Seller assessment)
Paintwork (Seller assessment)
Interior (Seller assessment)
Technique (Seller assessment)

Inspection Report

Report available
Condition grade
2
Report provider
Dekra
Condition grade2

Documents & Invoices (1)

Technical Details

Vehicle data

Make
Mercedes-Benz
Model series
123
Model name
230 C
Manufacturer code
W 123
First registration date
04/1980
Year of manufacture
1980
Mileage (read)
138,936 km
Chassis number
WDB12304312018423
Engine number
Not provided
Gearbox number
Not provided
Matching numbers
Yes
Number of owners
1

Technical details

Body style
Coupe
Power (kW/hp)
80/109
Cubic capacity (cm³)
2307
Cylinders
4
Doors
2
Steering
Left (LHD)
Gearbox
Automatic
Gears
4
Transmission
Rear
Front brakes
Disc
Rear brakes
Disc
Fuel type
Petrol

Individual Configuration

Exterior color
White
Power Assisted Steering
Yes
Central locking
Yes
Interior color
Others
Interior material
Part leather

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