Description
Imported into the UK from South Africa 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. I purchased it directly from the importer. My aim was to complete a thorough restoration to concours standard but time and work has meant that it has sat in the garage having occasional work carried out. There is zero rust and the underside of the vehicle is in very good condition.
There are many bills for work prior to its export, and a UK MoT certificate. 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.
On the outside the silver paint is presents really well and has a good shine. Generally though the paint finish is impressive and I have all the arches resprayed and there were two minor marks which have also been dealt with.
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 brand new white wall tyres from Longstone Tyres.
The Mechanics
The Mercedes is 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 very tidy.
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.
Recent work includes the usual boot gas stays being replaced.
A custom stainless steel exhaust.
Replacement and service kit installation for the SLS.
Rear light cluster replaced and fog/ reverse lights refurbished.
The car is the 7 seat version and also benefits from the rare to find rear pull over cover. Spare Wheel (unused) and I also have an original W123 tow bar which I will add.
There are some minor trim items to deal with, and the passenger side door latch needs attention but I may have this resolved in the next few days.
I am happy for any inspection on this wonderful and appreciating classic. With a little more time this is a £30k car, it has had a blessed one owner life and unlike any of the UK versions I have seen, is rust free!I bought this as the highest spec 280TE version of the best estate car ever made. I have been an avid Mercedes collector and have appeared in numerous Mercedes collector magazines. However, work and life is taking me in a different direction. Whom ever buys this will also receive a thousand pounds worth of books, magazines and literature on classic Mercedes which includes very rare advertising and marketing material about the car from the 70-80's.
