Solid, reliable and likely to survive a nuclear apocalypse, this is the estate variant of the hugely popular Mercedes Benz W123. This dependable wagon is Mercedes at its absolute best. In this golden era, those brilliant Mercedes engineers designed and built cars to last and last they will, with many, reported to still be in operation with mileages above and beyond what you would think is possible. These tarmac tanks were sold worldwide in their millions with the first cars to be available being so desirable they were purchased for more than the list price. 

This 280TE features the largest and most powerful petrol engine available at the time plus a long list of factory-added options. The car has been in current ownership since 2000 and has been thoroughly cherished with much mechanical and body works carried out, plus a long list of spares acquired to use as and when to assist with its longevity. 

Inside the estate, it's pleasant, clean, organised, essentially business as usual from the masters of understated interiors. Like most Mercs from this era, simple and purposeful was the goal. There are some areas of wear throughout, mainly on the tan leather seats which are displaying the usual marks. 

The dash and centre console are very well kept, with no sign of wear other than on the central leather compartment, otherwise, the plastic dash and veneer appear to be in fine condition. It’s a very pleasant environment for the individual who prefers the simple but restful interior over the sporty and impractical. 

Sat at the helm, you can’t help but feel very mature, sensible even. A car for the white-collar worker, an impressionable motor to travel to meetings in, plus a practical, versatile car for the family. 

The Estate variant of the W123 is arguably the best variant of the popular car, it adds a certain timeless allure, thanks to its long body and chrome detailing, a straightforward design and beautifully executed. The car, in general, is in good condition, there are some signs of wear such as stone chips and scratches around the vehicle, which have been photographed. 

There’s a bit of paint bubbling by the rear left taillight plus the underside of the front could do some improvement, otherwise, the paint is good, a nice metallic blue which pairs nicely with the tan interior. Work to the rear wings was carried out in 2017, plus a replacement tailgate and passenger door, while the vendor tells us that the front wings have been replaced and have the benefit of proper anti-corrosion treatment. 

The rubber door seals have been renewed, as have the sunroof and rear screens. In addition, the headlights were renewed. The car was kept garaged during its current 22-year ownership which in addition to the comprehensive care its been given has resulted in a tidy, attractive vehicle. 

During our visit, the car was driven a short distance to a nearby location for the photographer. The straight-six started without fuss, performing easily and ticking over effortlessly. These engines are renowned for their reliability, with many reaching over 500,000 miles if they are maintained correctly. 

The engine was replaced on this car in 2001 by Crewe Engines, a Mercedes-Benz specialist, with only 22,000 miles covered since. The powerful 2.7L M110 engine was the largest available at the point of production, combined with the 4-speed automatic gearbox the car certainly can shift. Around 182nhp and 240nm torque are sent to the rear wheels which are more than enough to push along the weighty ride. 

During its current ownership, the ABS brake system was overhauled, with a replacement ABS diff sensor being fitted. In addition, a stainless steel exhaust system has been installed. 

A large list of spare parts is also available with the car, a photo of these items is included. (Please see gallery.) 

Arguably the most reliable Mercedes, if not the most reliable car ever made. This Estate variant of the renowned W123 comes with good history, a long list of factory options plus that gorgeous Petrol metallic paint. A superb Merc from a superb era.