Mercedes Medley – The Danny Lucas Collection
October 11, 2023
The latest in our revered and distinguished series of auction collections sees a rather wonderful bevy of Benzes up for grabs from passionate Mercedes hoarder Danny Lucas. Spanning nine models, with a focus on the ’80s and Bruno Sacco, these cars form The Danny Lucas Collection and represent a golden era for the German manufacturer. From the rarer 300TD Turbo Diesel estate to a stunning R107 500SL there’s plenty here to sate many a Deutsch desire so join us as we take a look at some of the highlights of this carefully curated collection.
1981 Mercedes-Benz R107 500SL
We couldn’t tease you with the mention of a V8 SL and then not highlight the thing now could we? Ten years after the model’s inception in ’71, Mercedes made the excellent decision to chuck its M117 5.0-litre V8 from the SLC into the R107, thus creating the excellent 500SL and this rarer, Manganese Brown coloured car is a peach.
An early example, having been one of the first 1,000 500SLs to roll off the production line, it’s a wonderful representation of the marque. Complete with Mercedes’ silky smooth four-speed automatic gearbox, beige leather interior and matching hard top it’s an appealing proposition. Not only that but it’s road tax and ULEZ exempt to boot.
1981 Mercedes-Benz 300TD
Only available to those lucky folk across the pond in the US this rare and highly desirable Turbodiesel model arguably represents the ultimate in usability. Absolutely epitomising the term “all-rounder”, this collector grade 1981 W123 Turbodiesel estate is beautifully preserved.
Complete with period Oris roof boxes for that extra tick in the practicality section we would be proud, and supremely confident to drive this Astral Silver beauty every day and there’s more than enough performance from the forced induction 3.0-litre straight-six. A special car, especially in this condition. ’80s Mercedes perfection.
1981 Mercedes Benz W123 280E
One of many W123s that were sent in kit form to be built in South Africa, this 280E, with its bulletproof six-cylinder engine – that was rebuilt in 2015 – perfectly encapsulates what a good W123 should be. Engineered to last and built to exacting standards, it’s this fundamental durability that makes these cars such enduring, and indeed appealing propositions for classic car fans world wide.
Widely regarded as more robust than their European counterparts these South African cars make excellent daily classics and this particular example is no exception. In excellent condition throughout and with a comprehensive history it’s an exceptionally well kept 280.
1994 Mercedes-Benz E320 Coupé
With its stunning Malachite Green bodywork over Cognac leather interior this E320 Coupé is a bit of a stunner, there’s no denying that. Well-specified, wonderfully preserved and highly original it’s a car that oozes class and sophistication.
Not only does it look great but it also drives impeccably thanks to a full service history and plenty of TLC over the course of its cherished life. This is a true testament to the quality of cars that Mercedes was producing in the ’90s. An excellent addition to anyone’s collection.
1985 Mercedes-Benz W123 230E
Ubiquitous the world over and instantly recognisable as an old school Euro taxi the W123 is iconic. Renowned for their ruggedness and bombproof ability to just simply work they are trusted by millions and this particular mid-eighties example is in sublime original condition throughout, from the beautiful Ivory paint work to the striking red cloth interior.
With a comprehensive history and low mileage this 230E is up there with the most recognised, and indeed celebrated cars of all time. Perennially popular this top example of the marque is ready for its next adventure. Taxi!
Visit our auction section for the full run down of models included in The Danny Lucas Collection and to see each professionally written and photographed car. After that all that’s left to do is pick your favourites and get bidding. Good luck!
