1996 MERCEDES-BENZ (W124) E320 SPORTLINE CABRIOLET

This Mercedes-Benz E320 Sportline Cabriolet is a highly original example of a classy 1990s cruiser, with a desirable factory specification and excellent service history. It is powered by the 217bhp 3.2-litre M104 straight-six engine, driving the rear wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. The odometer shows 114,619 miles.

The car left the factory finished in Polar White with a black leather interior, and was equipped with the Sportline package that incorporated the sports chassis option, with a lower ride height, stiffer springs, uprated anti-roll bars and higher-grade bushes.

First registered in June 1996, this E320 has just three previous keepers, and the current owner acquired the car around four months ago.

Its bodywork is believed to be entirely original, with no known prior damage to any of the panels. The Polar White finish has been refreshed in places, with all work carried out professionally and to a good standard. There are a few minor marks around the body, including some small scuffs around the rear bumper, but this is clearly a well-cared for car. The black soft top roof is also in very good condition. Equipped with the Sportline package, it is understood to have originally had the eight-hole alloys, though these have been replaced with 16-inch AMG rims that are in superb order.

In the cabin, the black leather upholstery presents very well, with minimal wear to the front seats, and with the dashboard, door panel and centre console trims all still looking smart. The interior is accented by wood inlays, and retains the correct Sportline gear lever and optional part-wood steering wheel. Its equipment list includes electrically adjustable front seats, electric front and rear windows, dual-zone climate control, and a Pioneer head unit. There are no reported faults with any of the electrics, and no warning lights present.

The last scheduled maintenance was in September 2020 at 114,503 miles, with a service carried out by Airport Motors, incorporating fresh engine oil, two new tyres and replacement headlight lenses. Prior to this, it was also serviced by Airport Motors in September 2019 in August 2018, with renewal of the engine oil and filters. The timing belt was last replaced in September 2012 at 92,772 miles.

The most recent MOT test was on 22 September 2020 at 114,503 miles, when it achieved a first-time pass with a note about a slightly defective nearside headlight, and advisories regarding worn offside front and nearside rear tyres, and some deterioration to the front brake hoses. As mentioned above, the headlight lenses and the two worn tyres were replaced following the test.

Accompanying the car is the original Cabriolet supplement to the owner’s manual, the UK dealership directory from 1996, and the stamped maintenance booklet, which the vendor states contains records of 23 services.

This Mercedes-Benz E320 Sportline Cabriolet is a very well-presented example of a desirable modern classic. The W124 series is renowned for its build quality, refinement and durability, and this handsome drop-top should prove to be a reliable and enjoyable companion. Whether acquired as an addition to a Mercedes-Benz collection, or simply to savour on warm weekends or for longer road trips, this is sure to delight its next owner whenever they choose to drive it.

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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.