Highlights
- Rare engine and gearbox configuration
- Revisione valid until September 2025
- Owned by one family from new before the vendor
- Very high factory specification
- Highly original throughout
- Offered in good running and driving order
- Car homologated for seven seats (can be seen from the folding seats in the boot)
The Appeal
The 123 series has become synonymous with quality and is still regarded as one of the most rugged cars ever built. The estate proved particularly versatile, offering enormous luggage space and seating for up to seven people. This 1983 example is a 280TE with a five-speed manual gearbox—a rare engine/transmission combination for the model and a particularly versatile one at that.
As you’ll observe in the photographs, this 280TE is in highly original order and in good overall condition for its age. Although now in need of a thorough service and some general cosmetic attention, it’s a great example to buy thanks to its rare specification and impressive originality.
The History and Paperwork
- Before the vendor, we’re informed that the car was owned by the same family from new
- 270,005 km
- Revisione until 30/09/2025
- Acquired by the vendor for its rarity
- Libretto present
The Condition
- The vendor notes that the bodywork would benefit from a full respray
- Some areas of localised paint loss, bubbling and chips photographed
- The vendor has provided numerous photographs of the underside, revealing some corrosion to be addressed
- Replacement patches provided (see photographs)
- The bodywork looks straight and solid overall with good panel alignment and door fit
- ‘Mexican hat’ alloy wheels in smart order
- Bumpers, chromework and trim all presents well
- Highly original interior
- The leather has dried out somewhat in the sun but looks eminently serviceable
- Zebrano woodwork looks in great condition for its age
- High specification includes luggage net, rear headrests and rear blind
- Some wear to the carpets and door cards
The Mechanics
- 2.8-litre petrol straight-six
- Five-speed manual gearbox
- All looks original and in fair condition under the bonnet
- Reportedly running and driving well
- The vendor reports that the Mercedes tracks straight
- Recent new tyres
- Now due a thorough mechanical service
- Current Revisione
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.
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