Highlights

Fabulous rally-prepared Mercedes-Benz 230E W123
Full FIVA paperwork and approved as a historic vehicle
Took part in the 2024 Hero-Era Artic Midnight Sun Rally
Current MOT valid until February 2026

The Appeal

Often regarded as one of the most rock-solid cars to ever hit the market, the W123 is the sort of car that perfectly summarises Mercedes-Benz. Executive glamour, angular styling, and remarkable build quality - it's an unmissable combo that's timeless and treasured.

Needless to say, that makes them a popular pick for endurance events. This one has recently experienced exactly that. The vendor purchased the car specifically to enter it in to the Artic Midnight Sun Rally, covering some 4,800 miles (including from the UK and back) through Scandinavia, up to the Artic Circle from Gothenburg and finishing in Oslo over the course of 14 days. We're proudly informed that it didn't miss a beat!

Now, the vendor is moving onto a new project - and is seeking a lucky new owner for this ready-and-willing rally vehicle. The car underwent significant maintenance and upgrades before entering the event, and is primed through-and-through for its next exploit.

The vendor says:

"If you are looking for a comfortable competitive car this is a good choice - it's not super powerful but handles well and is plenty powerful enough for these events. Alternatively, use it for pleasure, it's tax-free, MOT exempt, ULEZ exempt and Congestion Charge exempt and costs less than £200 per year to insure."

The History and Paperwork

Registered in 1983
The DVLA records 7 previous keepers
In current ownership since 2024
Modified and prepared for the Artic Midnight Sun Rally
Completed rally in July 2024 with no issues
Full FIVA paperwork and approved as a historic vehicle
Current MOT valid until February 2026
Extensive service history with numerous bills and invoices
Previous owner invested significantly in maintenance and upgrades
Indicates 125,104 miles
The number plate currently on the car is not part of the sale - the car will revert to its 'Y' registration

The Condition

The vendor notes that the car was undersealed from new
It was in fine fettle upon purchase and proved an excellent fit for the vendor's goals
Highly original throughout with factory-accurate metallic blue paintwork
Period Cibie spots installed with a bespoke stainless bracket
Bonnet catches
Brightwork is still contrasting nicely
New Wipers
New mudflaps all-round
Fully refurbished wheels with good tyres
Impressive interior with full dyno matting
4 point Harnesses for driver and navigator
Original front seats rebuilt with extra padding for comfort
Radio with Bluetooth and electric aerial
Full Factory A/C from new, this has been fully refurbished by a specialist with new compressor and condenser
Brantz rally meter with both GPS and wheel sensor
Auxiliary Rev counter fitted
Dished Rally Steering wheel
New rubber door seals and rear window rubbers

The Mechanics

2,299cc 4-cylinder engine
Manual transmission with 4 gears
Engine bay in excellent order
Full service undertaken in 2024 including:
- Service of engine, gearbox, and differential oil change, new spark plugs, and belts
Modifications include:
- New exhaust system with skid plates
- H&R lowered springs and Bilstein shock absorbers all round
- New braided brake hoses, Brembo pads, and racing brake fluid used
- Refurbished alternator
- 4 wheel alignment carried out
We understand the car to be in excellent working order
We've no reports of any mechanical issues

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

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✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand..