This 1978 Mercedes-Benz (W123) 280CE is a high-mileage, but largely original, example of a classic Mercedes-Benz, complete with recent maintenance. Under its bonnet sits a naturally-aspirated 2.8-litre inline-six-cylinder engine which develops 130kW and 234Nm. Drive is sent to the rear wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission. The odometer of this car currently shows 299,362km. As one of Mercedes’ best-selling models of all time, the W123 is instantly recognisable for its unique styling and gets a knowing nod from enthusiasts for being exceptionally well-built. It’s also incredibly reliable.

The W123 was entered into countless road rallies and earned a reputation for regularly finishing on top – no doubt helped by the model’s mechanical simplicity and endurance. In civilian guise, the Mercedes W123 was the chariot of choice for thousands of European taxi drivers. Not only were they plenty comfortable for passengers, but the cars would run for up to 1,000,000km before nearing the end of their lives. Many of these million-kilometre European examples are understood to have been shipped over to Africa and set up (albeit with minor maintenance) to undergo taxi business again. Today, the W123 is appreciated as a must-have classic Benz with iconic Bruno Sacco styling and a range of reliable six-cylinder engines. This W123 is painted white on the outside and is upholstered inside with brown trim.

The exterior is highlighted by chrome trim and the cabin receives woodgrain inserts. The seller states there are no aftermarket modifications to taint the car's original look. It rides on a set of period-correct 14-inch Mercedes wheels wrapped in Dunlop tyres. Other original items include the Becker cassette radio and factory air conditioning. Manufactured by Mercedes-Benz in Stuttgart, Germany and complied new in Australia in February 1978, this W123 still retains its original owner’s manual. Little information is known about its service history, though the seller states the vehicle has just undergone significant refresh at Richmond Garage.

It is now said to be in fine mechanical condition. On the outside, exterior presentation remains in great order considering the car’s age and odometer. The white paintwork appears in good condition without obvious marks, while minimal wear and tear is noted around window trims and exterior plastics. The chrome detailing shines brightly and all indicator lenses appear without obvious cracking (a common issue on W123s). All four wheels display without kerb rash damage. Inside the cabin, this W123 appears to be in good condition.

The fabric seat inners show no points of staining and the vinyl outers appear without sagging and crease marks. Similarly, no major stains are noted on the floor mats and headlining. Minimal wear and tear is noted on door panels and the dashboard instrumentation. Woodgrain inlays present without damage. This Mercedes-Benz 280CE will come with its original owner’s manual. As per Trading Garage Terms and Conditions, although Trading Garage has completed the following checks bidders must satisfy themselves to the accuracy of the description and do any research they feel necessary before bidding.

All listings are sold in Australian dollars. This vehicle is currently registered in Victoria under a club permit. There are no security interests registered on the PPSR against the serial number and it is not recorded as written off or stolen.