1991 MERCEDES-BENZ (W124) 230TE - 53,015 MILES

This Mercedes Benz 230TE comes from an age in car production when engineers had the last say rather than accountants. Boldly Germanic and displaying the model’s peerless quality of the era, this right-hand-drive UK specification example is fitted with the robust 2.3-litre four-cylinder petrol engine mated to a four-speed automatic gearbox. In single ownership for the last 29 years, this well specified, low-mileage estate is a wonderful example of the breed.

First registered on 28 June 1991, H963 HLY now displays 53,015 miles on the odometer. It is understood to have been used as a demonstrator for the first two months of its life, before being acquired by the current owner in August 1991 as a nearly-new car. This is a highly original car and has been used sparingly over the years.

The Pearl Blue paintwork is reported to be in good and original condition, overall remaining bright and presentable. Detailed inspection shows a number of age-related scuffs and marks plus some small dents in the driver’s side rear door and on the tailgate. It is common to see rust around the wheel arches and wings on a W124 model, but this example appears to be remarkably clean. The original wheels also present well with good paint albeit with a few kerb marks.

The interior trim is akin to the high standards of the exterior, with the original blue cloth seat covers only showing signs of wear in high-contact points such as the driver’s seat bolsters. The veneered wood and plastic trims again present very well for their age. Common wear areas such as the leather steering wheel and dashboard switchgear also remain in good order, while the electric windows are all in working order, and the manual sunroof opens and closes as it should. The only imperfection reported is a broken electric aerial. Fitted with the 7-seat option, the boot area also presents well with original factory tow hitch and full size spare wheel.

The vendor states that this car has received annual maintenance from new, even though not all have been logged in the stamped service record. It was last given an engine oil and filter service and brake fluid change by Wayne Gates Mercedes-Benz in September 2020. This service also included a new battery, wipers and four new Pirelli Cinturato tyres.

The most recent MOT test was on 29 September 2020 at 53,011 miles, with no advisories. Backing up the high levels of maintenance, MOT records show an impressive history, and provide a superb record of the low mileage accrual over the last 15 years.

Pleasingly, this car retains its original Mercedes Benz owner’s wallet, housing the stamped service record, user guides and various period literature – including a copy of the original purchase agreement from 1991.

This Mercedes Benz 230TE represents a great opportunity to own an increasingly rare example of one of the German marque’s most robust and practical vehicles. Presented in original and unmodified condition, this is a low-mileage car offered from 29-year ownership, which is ready to offer its next owner many more pleasurable miles.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence through HPI checks and MOT history. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.