Introduced in 1976, the W123 series was notable as providing the basis for Mercedes-Benz's first factory-built estate car, the 280 TE, which made its debut at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September 1977. With the T standing for Tourismus und Transport (Touring), and the E for Einspritzung (fuel injection), the 280TE became one of the most highly regarded load-luggers you could buy.
With the Mercedes three pointed star on the bonnet as a sign of quality and dependability it was a big seller worldwide, and is easily capable of interplanetary mileages. Special features of the estate version included a strengthened rear chassis and tailgate, and hydraulic self-levelling rear suspension.
Imported into the UK from South Africa earlier this year it was first registered UK in November 2021. Thought to have been supplied new in South Africa in 1982 it is, of course in right hand drive form and has clearly benefited from a life led in the warm South African climate.
What we do know about the Mercedes is that is thought to have had only one owner in South Africa. It has spent its whole life on a private game reserve close to the Kruger National Park, near Johannesburg. Belonging to the Reserve owner, it formed part of a collection of cars, all used regularly.
As usual with imported cars we can only learn so much from the paperwork as most of the history fails to make the trip to the UK. There are some bills for recent work prior to its export, and a UK MoT certificate that is valid until October 2022. There are papers pertaining to its export; a South African registration, export permit, and details of the shipping.
Recent work was carried out in April 2021 prior to export by Frisco Garage in Alberton SA, a Mercedes specialist. The list on file includes what appears to be recommissioning work, with a new fuel tank and filters, new brake lines and callipers, gear shift bushes, engine and gearbox mounts, and a reconditioned radiator.
The Mercedes was treated to a service before being sent to have its air conditioning reconditioned with a rebuilt compressor and a re-gas. Bills for this work are in the file. In October, now in the UK, it was given new plug leads and spark plugs.
Although the Mercedes has covered a below average number of miles for the model (136,000) the interior of the in good overall condition with nothing but light age related wear and tear. There is no sign of damp, and the tan carpets, protected by beige woven mats, are in good clean condition as is the roof lining. The parchment colour MB-Tex seats are in excellent condition, especially the rears which have been barely used.
There are a couple of small issues; a small tear on the side of the driver’s seat squab, and another on the centre armrest. The dashboard area is also excellent, with no sun damage, and the wood trim is glossy with no cracks. The instruments are clear and the gauges appear to function correctly. The centre console area is clean, with a correct Becker Mexico Cassette radio that looks to be original.
There are electric windows all round. In the large load area the carpet is equally clean, and the Mercedes has the excellent fold out rear facing seat option.
On the outside the silver paint is presents well and has a good shine. There are a couple places that would be worth addressing to bring it all up the overall standard. These are a small scrape on the driver’s side rear wheel arch, and another on the passenger side front wing above the rubbing strip. Generally though the paint finish is impressive.
All the glass is good with no cracks or cloudiness in the screens or lights. The exterior trim all fits well and nothing appears to be damaged or missing. The wheels are 14 inch “Mexican Hat” style that an option on the W123 series, as an alternative to the steel wheels with colour coded hubcaps. All four have Nankang tyres which are lightly worn.
When we visited the Mercedes was running well, manoeuvring effortlessly during the photoshoot with no nasty noises from either the engine or gearbox. Under the bonnet everything appears to be factory stock, and is surprisingly tidy considering the miles covered. Time spent giving the engine bay a clean would be rewarding, although we could see no evidence of fluid leaks.
Plenty of attention was been lavished on the car to keep it the engine bay looking this good. Given that the W123 series is renowned for its ability to cover massive mileages it’s likely that this example will be no exception.
It’s easy to understand the enduring appeal of the W123 series. The build quality is exceptional; you would not guess the age or mileage of this car by studying any part of it. There is also the practicality to consider. Six seats, or even 7 at a push. Teutonic reliability, matched with chiselled, handsome looks. Add to that good parts availability, gently rising values, and this example is right hand drive too!
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1982 Mercedes-Benz 280 TE Estate
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