The W123 Diesel; the ultimate indestructible Benz. Thing is, they’re actually quite hard to find now. These things have been working hard for over 40 years and plenty have been exported, rotted away or simply worn out after enormous mileages.

 

This China Blue 1981 240D has covered just 111k miles from new - low mileage for a diesel. It has the 4-speed manual gearbox and dark blue MB Tex vinyl interior. Does have many other juicy options or accessories? No, not really, but these things never did. A 240D was about high-quality, functional transport that was designed to last. That’s its appeal.

 

Registered as a historic vehicle so ULEZ, MoT and road tax exempt.

 

While we don’t have folders of history on this one, it is evident that it is a remarkably original, unmolested example that has in recent years been through the hands of Mark Cosovich of W123 World, who supplied the car to its last two owners.

 

This is an honest, solid car that has never been welded underneath and does not need to be. The body has a couple of minor blemishes, but overall presents extremely well as the photos hopefully show. The period-perfect China Blue paintwork shines well, and all the trim is in good order, including those lovely colour-matched wheel trims.

 

Similarly, the interior in Blue MB Tex is super original and in nice condition throughout, even retaining its original Blaupunkt radio.

 

Starts instantly from cold and runs and drives extremely well with that charismatic diesel Mercedes soundtrack.

 

Just been serviced and ready to go for its next owner. A practical, dependable and characterful classic that is tax and ULEZ exempt. Rare to find such a tidy, honest example of these iconic cars today.