Description
1991 Mercedes-Benz 230TE W124 Estate – Automatic – 68, 000 Miles – 7 Seats
A lovely, very original 1991 Mercedes-Benz 230TE W124 estate, showing just 68, 352 miles, with only 2 former keepers.
Finished in a fantastic period deep red/ burgundy metallic with contrasting cream leather interior and walnut wood trim, this is a particularly attractive and very usable example of Mercedes’ increasingly collectible W124 estate.
History
The car has had just 2 former keepers.
The original service book records servicing up to 2001, when the mileage was approximately 33, 000 miles.
The previous owner subsequently had the car SORN from 2006 until 2019, which helps explain its relatively low mileage.
We bought the car in May 2021 at approximately 58, 000 miles. It was initially used regularly, although relatively sparingly as we have several other vehicles. Over the past couple of years it has seen even less use since we bought a pickup, which is ultimately the reason for selling.
It now shows 68, 352 miles.
Specification
1991 Mercedes-Benz 230TE
W124 estate
2. 3-litre petrol engine
Automatic transmission
68, 352 miles
Right-hand drive
7-seat configuration
Burgundy/ deep red metallic
Cream leather interior
Walnut wood trim
Original Mercedes alloy wheels
Original roof rails
Classic chrome grille and bonnet star
Registration: H324 FHG
12 months MOT
Condition
The bodywork presents very nicely for a 35-year-old car, and the burgundy metallic really suits the W124. Importantly, the car retains its original appearance and has not been modified or modernised.
The bonnet and approximately half of the car were professionally repainted a few years ago. There are some small areas of clear lacquer peeling remaining on the other side, as shown in the photographs.
Inside is particularly attractive, with cream leather, walnut trim and the wonderfully solid Mercedes switchgear of the period.
The leather has the expected age-related creasing and patina, particularly on the front seats, but there are no rips or significant scuffs. It feels like an honest, original interior rather than one that has been excessively restored.
The dashboard and instrument cluster are also very well preserved, with the odometer currently displaying 68, 352 miles.
Driving
It drives absolutely as it should and is mechanically sound.
The engine and automatic gearbox make for an exceptionally smooth, relaxed drive and it still has that solid, elegant feel for which these older Mercedes are known.
The W124 estate makes a particularly good usable classic: comfortable enough for long journeys, genuinely practical and increasingly interesting as a collectible Mercedes.
This isn’t being presented as a concours or museum car. It is an original 35-year-old Mercedes, so please expect the normal age-related marks and imperfections. Overall, however, it presents as a very handsome and remarkably usable example.
Known faults / points to note
In the interests of giving an accurate description, the points I am aware of are:
1. Lacquer
There are a few small areas where the clear lacquer coat is peeling, as shown in the photographs. This is confined to one side of the car, as the bonnet and approximately half of the car were professionally painted a few years ago.
2. Rear-facing 6th and 7th seats
The folding rear seats in the boot are difficult to open and close because some of the brackets have bent or broken, making the mechanism stiff.
They are best kept either up or down as they are. If you intend to change regularly between five- and seven-seat configurations, the brackets/ mechanism will require attention or replacement.
3. Front wings
There is a very small amount of bubbling beginning on both front wings. Please see photographs.
4. Central locking
The central locking on the rear passenger-side door is occasionally temperamental.
These points have been reflected in the description rather than trying to present the car as something it isn’t.
Overall
A very appealing opportunity to own an original, low-mileage W124 230TE estate in a particularly attractive colour combination.
With just 2 former keepers, 68, 352 miles, its original service book, seven-seat configuration and largely original presentation, it has many of the qualities that make these estates increasingly sought after.
The car is in Devon.
Viewing is very welcome and strongly recommended before buying.
