Highlights

Neat, practical and economical four-door classic
Well specified with smart red leather interior
At 127,000 miles, it’s barely run in for an OM617 3L diesel
Approximately £4,000 recently spent, including all-new wings
Featured in TV, film and photo shoots
Always garaged during current ownership
MOT, road tax and LEZ exempt

The Appeal

The joy of the W123 is that it’s a car that feels at home anywhere—from taxi ranks to gently easing into an executive car park space. This 300D can do either job perfectly, too: alongside that tough OM617 diesel engine, it’s got a luxurious burgundy leather interior, complete with front and rear headrests.

The condition is impressive, even for a 43-year-old Mercedes and, at 127,000 miles, it’s still barely run in by W123 diesel standards. The vendor acquired it in 2020 and tells us it has recently benefited from £4,000 worth of work, including new all-four wings.

This car is said to have starred in weddings, TV, film and photo shoots. Here’s your chance to give it a starring role on your driveway.

The vendor says:

"Affectionately known as the 'Million Kilometre Mercedes', the W123 300D has earned a reputation as one of the most durable and dependable cars ever produced by Mercedes-Benz. With only 127,000 miles on the clock, this example is barely run in by W123 standards and remains a testament to the legendary engineering for which the model is renowned. Finished in an elegant, deep cream and complemented by a striking burgundy leather interior, this 300D presents beautifully and stands apart from the few other examples on the road today.

"The build quality is exceptional, and further enhancing its period charm are a custom vinyl roof, the desirable four-speed automatic transmission and a factory electric sunroof. Maximum originality has been retained: the original first aid kit is still housed in the parcel-shelf compartment, and the original factory warning triangle, documents, wallet and toolkit also remain with the vehicle. Increasingly sought after and rarely encountered, it’s believed there are only around 20 W123 300D examples currently licensed for road use in the UK. As a result, this Mercedes draws admiration wherever it goes and represents a rare opportunity to acquire one of the marque's most celebrated diesel models.

"Known fondly by its owner and family as 'Amos', the car starts first time every time and performs exactly as you’d hope from a well-maintained W123. It’s very much a usable classic, equally suited to regular enjoyment or preservation in a collection. During the current six years of ownership, the vehicle has covered fewer than 2,000 miles and has been reserved exclusively for motoring only when the sun is shining.

"Before the current ownership, the car was owned by a dedicated Mercedes enthusiast for approximately 11 years, during which time it benefited from a comprehensive suspension overhaul, with expenditure understood to be in the region of £8,000 to £10,000. Combined expenditure by these two custodians is estimated between £15,000 and £20,000, reflecting a commitment to maintaining the car to a high standard. Only a matter of a few months ago, over £3,000 was spent replacing all four wings. Adding further interest, this charming W123 has also appeared in several television productions and film projects.

"Offered only because the vendors children have left home and he’s considering a change to another classic Mercedes-Benz coupe model, this is a reluctant sale of a much-loved and increasingly rare example. Combining exceptional longevity, handsome presentation and genuine usability, 'Amos' represents a wonderful opportunity to acquire one of Stuttgart's finest automotive achievements."

Key Information

Mileage: 127,150 miles (unverified)
Country of registration: United Kingdom
Technical inspection status: exempt
Technical specs: 87hp 3.0-litre five-cylinder diesel, four-speed automatic
Paperwork: History file and records reportedly present

The Detail

Finished in generally well-kept beige with all four wings recently replaced
Fitted with black vinyl roof, Mercedes mud flaps and factory steel wheels
Attractive burgundy leather interior with Zebrano veneers and sliding steel sunroof
Vendor describes the car as meticulously maintained
We’re told the car starts first time, every time

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’re still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

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✓ 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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