Widely regarded as the last of the truly over-engineered Mercedes cars, the W123 was produced in huge numbers during a production cycle lasting nine years before the introduction of the W124 in the mid-1980s. The boys at Benz managed to shift almost three million W123s during this time, making it the most successful product offered by the company. Perhaps unsurprisingly, when Piers Richings, founder of automotive accessories giant, Richbrook (richbrook.co.uk), started to explore the Mercedes back catalogue a decade ago, he was curious to find out why the W123 is still regarded as a jewel in the manufacturer’s crown. Not that he immediately jumped behind the wheel of the W114’s successor…
“I bought a W126 500 SE instead,” he tells us. “I loved the car’s battleship grey paintwork and matching hide, but I couldn’t resist the lure of the sportier SEC body shape. Before long, I’d parted with the SE in favour of a coupe powered by the same engine.” He quickly discovered all that glitters is not necessarily gold. “I don’t mind admitting I bought a bad example,” he groans. “I loved the way the car looked, but it came complete with a high number of mechanical issues preventing me from getting on with the business of enjoyable driving. As much as I love the SEC, this one had to go.”
His fondness for the V8 powerplants stuffed beneath the long bonnets of retro rides can be traced back to his experiences riding around in the 300 SEL 6.3 his father owned four decades ago. Originally a private project by Mercedes engineer, Erich Waxenberger, the model came about following an idea to lift the powerful M100 engine from the super-luxury 600 and stuff it into the front of an S-Class. The biggest engine visitors to Mercedes showrooms could order with their W109s at the time was an inline-six, but amazed at Waxenberger’s achievement at turning the S-Class into a sports car beater, factory bosses put the Frankenstein-spec four-wheeler into production, revealing it at the 1968 Geneva Motor Show.
The resulting 300 SEL 6.3 W109 may have weighed almost two tonnes, but the fuel injected four-door travelled at high speed with superior levels of comfort, despatching a rapid sprint to 62mph from rest in under 6.5 seconds. The car maxed out at close to 137mph.
FAMILY AFFAIR
“Trips out in my dad’s Mercedes were a big thrill for the fifteen-year-old me!” beams Piers. “At the time of its release, the 300 SEL 6.3 W109 (W108) was the world’s fastest four-door car. It’s an impressive machine with an amazing engine, one which left a lasting impression on my young mind.” Strange, then, he should choose to buy a W123 powered by one of the range’s smaller powerplants.
“I enjoyed the wonderful waft delivered by the five-litre V8s in my W126s, but I liked the idea of trying a Mercedes with a more compact engine,” continues the resident of North Norfolk. He struck lucky when he spotted the 1983 Labrador Blau 230E seen here advertised for sale three years ago. In a standard state of tune, boasting original paintwork, immaculate cabin furniture, little more than 70k miles registered on its odometer and still wearing its original dealer-issue registration plates, the modern classic was everything he wished for. Well, other than a staggeringly tall ride height.
“The car was riding on heavy duty dampers more in keeping with what you’d fit to a motor you’re about to put to work as a towing vehicle! My first job was to fit a set of standard shocks and springs.” W123 service and repair specialist, Mark Cosovich (w123world.com), was only too happy to take delivery of the offending parts thereafter.
EARLY DETAILS
The more you look around the car, the more you’re amazed at the preservation of its originality. We spot a Pioneer cassette-radio that’s managed to avoid being replaced with a newer head unit. The number-etched factory glass remains present and correct. Bargate Motors (now Mercedes-Benz of Boston) main dealer window graphics stay stuck in the same place they were positioned thirty-five years ago. Then there’s the ‘Clunk-Click’ sticker adhered to the dash. Free of any wear, tear or mucky paw prints, the striking infographic marked the beginning of UK legislation forcing compulsory seatbelt use in the front of a vehicle from 31st January 1983 onwards, a move designed to cut carnage on British roads.
“The body has never been welded,” confirms Piers. “To keep it that way, I’ve ensured the chassis has been treated to a healthy dose of Waxoyl,” he adds. That’s just as well, because this super saloon is put to work as his commuter. “It’s true! I use the car to take me to Richbrook’s offices in Fakenham and home again most days. I’ve got other cars, but I love driving my W123. I’ll use it for B-road blasts into nearby Holt, or to ferry me to shows.” How does having half the number of cylinders to play with shape-up when compared to the experience of driving the monster Mercs he’s owned in the past? He pauses for a moment before replying. “I’ll be honest,” he whispers. “I miss the torque of a V8. The four-pot engine is great, though. Fuel injection is a welcome feature, and the car isn’t sluggish by any stretch of the imagination. The power and speed produced by the 230E is ample for how and where I travel, and the automatic transmission makes for effortless time in the driving seat.”
The engine is in perfect working order and benefits from easy breathing thanks to a free-flowing stainless steel exhaust system. Toyo 350 177/80 tyres wrapped around the factory fourteens provide a low-noise, high-comfort ride, while Richbrook magnetic tyre valve caps hint at who owns this beautiful Benz.
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the last three years I’ve spent with the car, but I’m now on the lookout for its replacement,” announces Piers when we ask what’s next for his terrific 230E. “I’m on the hunt for another V8!” he roars, before revealing his plan to track down and purchase a pristine example of a W124 400E.
The W123 230E might not be the most exciting Mercedes saloon ever built, but if you’re looking for an utterly dependable, brilliantly comfortable four-door offering decent fuel economy, bags of character and mechanicals recognised for being easy to work on, then you can’t go far wrong. “I’m in no rush to sell,” smiles Piers. “I count myself lucky to have found a 230E in such good condition. I certainly don’t mind hanging on to it for a while longer!”
Rich pickings
In addition to his role as Richbrook’s chief, Piers is also founder of Richings Greetham, a company specialising in the design and production of high quality leather wallets and travel accessories aimed at owners of classic cars. Focusing on elegant design, function and longevity, the company has gone from strength to strength thanks to the popularity of its travel pouches, iPhone cases, passport holders, headphone cable tidies, laptop sleeves, glasses cases, zip wallets, card holders and key rings, each available in a variety of colours. Visit richingsgreetham.co.uk
Right Richings Greetham automotive lifestyle accessories are the perfect match for this beautiful W123. Left We have more than a feeling this kind of detail on a W123 is considered highly desirable Facing page Richbrook magnetic tyre valve caps were a ‘must have’ accessory!
THE MORE YOU LOOK, THE MORE YOU’RE AMAZED AT THE PRESERVATION OF ORIGINALITY
DRIVER Q & A
PIERS RICHINGS
First Mercedes-Benz 1990 W126 500 SE
Favourite Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.3 W109
Best thing about your W123 230E I love the ‘clunk’ sound of its doors closing!
Worst thing about your W123 230E Squeaky seats Best thing about
Mercedes ownership You have faith in the reliability of these cars due to the quality of engineering poured into them at the factory
