1986 Mercedes-Benz 300E Saloon (W124)

Background:

Mercedes-Benz launched the W124 range in 1984, with a wide variety of body styles including saloon, estate, coupé, cabriolet and limousine. Traditional Mercedes engineering values abounded but the company was not afraid to pioneer new technology, carrying over the multi-link rear suspension from the W201 range and adding self-levelling rear suspension to its estate models, as well as a shaped underfloor panel, to help reduce aerodynamic drag and increase fuel efficiency.

Initially, the model was offered with 2.0-litre or 2.3-litre four-cylinder and 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engines and 2.0-litre, 2.5-litre or 3.0-litre turbo diesels but all were imbued with Mercedes’ renowned build quality and soon found eager buyers in the mid-size executive market. From 1993 the range was marketed as the E Class, a name which has remained a constant on mid-size Benzes ever since. Before it was replaced by the W210 family in 1996, over 2.5 million W124s found happy owners.

The car:

This W124 is among perhaps the more unusual of its breed, having been ordered for use by the Embassy of an African nation, featuring climate control and no sunroof, with velour interior trim. The car retains its original Becker stereo.

As a 300E model, it features the 3.0-litre fuel-injected M103 six-cylinder engine, producing 180PS (178hp) offering a sub-9 second 0-60 time and a top speed of 140mph.

It wears the signature 15-hole, flat-faced alloy wheels introduced on this model - nicknamed 'Gullideckel' or manhole covers, because they resemble manhole or drainage covers in Germany - which are characteristic of Mercedes models of the 80s and 90s. These ride on good Michelin tyres.

It has been maintained regardless of cost during its life and has covered a commendably restrained 99,240 miles during its 38-year life. In the massive history file is documented proof of its service history up to 87,000 miles, the first 68,000 of which was with Mercedes main dealers.

The car benefits from major recent expenditure on suspension renovation, including bushes and suspension tops, restoring the original ride quality and – while it is not concours – it remains a very clean and presentable example. It comes with the original sales brochure and book pack, as well as three keys and many Mercedes fans would consider it barely run it at this mileage.

Summary:

A chance to snap up a ‘hewn-from-solid’ Mercedes 300E, which seems set for a second life outside of diplomatic service.

Seller: Trade

Photos: Vendor Supplied

Location: Surrey