1983 MERCEDES-BENZ (W123) 230 TE

This 1983 Mercedes-Benz 230 TE is a fine example of the handsome and well-engineered modern classic estate car, benefitting from a comprehensive recent service and with only four keepers from new. It is powered by a 2.3-litre inline-four with Bosch fuel injection, which produces around 130bhp and drives the rear wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. The odometer displays 157,221 miles from new.

An original UK-market right-hand drive example, this W123-generation 230 TE was specified with Champagne paintwork over a beige interior, and is equipped with the rare factory options of cruise control and ABS. First registered in January 1983, it has had only four keepers from new, and has been kept by the same family for the past 17 years.

Today, the bodywork remains in very good order. While the front wings have previously been restored, this is believed to have been due to corrosion rather than any accident damage, and the underside of the car has been fully cleaned and rust-proofed to protect it from the elements. Fully resprayed nine years ago at a cost of £5,000, the Champagne metallic paintwork is in great shape, with only two minor blemishes on the scuttle panel and a bubble at the front driver’s side of the sunroof panel, which is commensurate with the vehicle’s age.

All of the body trims, including the brightwork and plastic mouldings present very well. This 230 TE rides on the correct set of chromed 14-inch wheels with gold hubcaps. All four feature some chips and scratches to their surfaces, so would perhaps benefit from refurbishment to match the quality of the paint.

Stepping inside, the cabin still features all of its original upholstery and trim, and is in very good order, particularly when considering the car’s age and mileage. The seats are clad in hardwearing beige fabric and show few signs of use, save for some minor blemishes on the base of the driver’s seat. Trimmed in beige vinyl with matching cloth centre sections, the door cards are similarly smart, and while there is a small nick towards the bottom of the rear passenger-side item, this does not detract from the interior’s impressive overall condition. Entertainment is provided via a period-correct Becker Avus cassette player, and all of the interior buttons, switches and electrical items work without fault.

This modern classic Mercedes’ most recent routine maintenance was an extensive service, which was carried out by specialist Cosford Hall Classic in late 2019 at around 157,000 miles. At a total cost of £9,000, this involved replacement of the brake components and a full engine service, as well as the fitment of a new distributor cap, rotor arm, HT leads and spark plugs, to name but a few items. The seller notes that the car has barely been driven since, and as such should still be in good running order. Prior to this, the brake discs and pads were changed at 156,183 miles, and the timing chain was changed in September 2018.

Its last MOT test was conducted on 13 February 2020 at 157,183 miles, which resulted in a first-time pass without any advisories, and the vendor will have the car retested prior to its handover to its next owner, so that it will come with a fresh 12-month certificate. All four wheels are shod in Dunlop Street Response 2 tyres in size 195/70 R14, which are brand-new.

This 230 TE will be accompanied by all of its original documents and manuals, including its service book and a period-correct poster displaying the 1983 model range.

This Mercedes-Benz 230 TE is a handsome and well-loved modern classic, which offers style, comfort and impressive levels of practicality in equal measure. Having been owned by the same family for the last 17 years, it has been used and enjoyed as intended, and is ready to continue in faithful service for another enthusiast owner.

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