Highlights
- Incredibly low mileage example of the desirable W123 wagon
- Great specification including cloth trim, sunroof and manual gearbox
- Sought after top specification 280TE model
- Low owners with last one for over 20 years
- Full service history all by Mercedes-Benz and specialists
- Huge history file
The Appeal
For many years Mercedes-Benz’ executives stood by and watched as other manufacturers made hay with popular estate cars. For them, the idea of a practical, load lugging Benz was anathema to them. Eventually they changed their minds and the result was arguably one of the greatest estate cars of all time - the W123.
With the carefully built W123 saloon as its base the estate version had a head start. To those qualities of durability and superb engineering the T-Wagon added serious carrying potential. The new car made estate cars feel special and the huge range of engine and trim combinations meant there was a version for most of middle England. But the top of the tree was the 2.7litre M110-engined 280TE.
This 280TE is a real find. A low owner car with less than 80,000 miles on the clock it is barely run in. The appeal continues with the popular Forest Green paint, fabric interior and useful sunroof. It is also a very rare manual version. If that has whet your appetite for this remarkable car, read on for more.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered on 1st August 1984
- VIN records confirm:
- Built in July 1984
- Fitted with sunroof, air conditioning, electric windows, Zebrano wood veneers and 15 hole alloys
- Second owner for over 20 years
- Last MOT expired on 14th November 2014 but the car has only covered 150 miles since
- Refurbished by the seller for sale, including:
- Rear inner and outer arches replaced and professionally repainted
- Propshaft bearing replaced
- Full service
- Machine polish and detail
- Huge history file including old MOTs and service invoices
- Original handbooks and service book
- Service book has 21 stamps by Mercedes-Benz main dealers and independent specialists
The Interior
- Beautifully preserved, highly original interior - only the radio has been replaced
- The interior condition is remarkable, particularly for a practical workhorse
- Red fabric seats (code 057) in good condition but with some fading and light staining visible
- Useful factory options include air conditioning, sunroof and electric windows
- Light-touch Zebrano wood veneers well preserved, only some slight deterioration on the centre console to note
- Dashboard in excellent condition with, unusually, no visible cracking or distortion
- Switchgear is original and with some wear but white decals remain clear
- Dials are clear, fully functioning and with clear plastic shroud with no scratches
- Original plastic four spoke factory steering wheel
- Optional central armrest
- Door cards factory standard and in very good condition
- Red carpets reflect the condition of the rest of the vehicle with no visible stains
- Load area is equally immaculate with optional retractable luggage net in place
The Exterior
- Desirable specification of Forest Green paintwork with 15 hole ‘Mexican Hat’ alloys
- We are told the exterior is mostly original but has recently been refurbished
- Machine polished and detailed for sale
- Rear inner and outer arches replaced and resprayed, the new paintwork carefully blended with the old
- Very solid and original car but with some very minor blemishes to be expected
- Small areas of surface corrosion on the edges of the doors and passenger rear door frame
- Alloy wheels are in very good condition with only very light marks visible
- Tyres show good tread all round
- Under bonnet area follows the same theme of originality and solidity
- Underside in good condition and has been checked by vendor before sale
- Brightwork appears original and displays on very light pitting on some components when viewed up close
- Glasswork and lights all complete and in good condition
The Mechanics
- M110 2.7litre fuel injected straight six Mercedes-Benz engine
- A healthy 150bhp through the rear wheels
- Rare manual gearbox model with 5spds
- Full Mercedes-Benz main dealer or independent specialist service history
- Just serviced prior to sale
- New exhaust system recently fitted
- New propshaft bearing
- Vast history file attesting to careful, long term ownership
Summary
When Mercedes-Benz decided to enter the estate car market it didn’t mess around. The W123 T-Wagon set new standards for what customers could expect from a load lugger, one that erred more towards green wellies and hunting and shooting parties than trips to the local tip. Today these cars are revered and owners tend to hang onto them. When they do come to market they are keenly sought after.
This is surely the ultimate W123 estate. Forest Green, cloth interior, manual, low owners, low mileage and a vast history file, the list of boxes ticked goes on. We are certainly envious of the lucky buyer.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
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