In 1976, when Mercedes launched the new 200-280 series (Code name W123), it seemed much like a case of the emperor’s new suit. Yet again, Mercedes had produced a solid, safe saloon and coupe, much like its previous ‘Stroke Eight’, but with a wealth of improvements.
Still used to this day as cabs in many developing nations, the W123 has earned itself a reputation as one of the few truly bulletproof classics. Four diesel options were available, along with four petrol options – the top 280 model was also available with fuel injection.
The following year, Mercedes debuted the W123 coupe (or C123, to Mercedes diehard fans). Available as a 230C, 280C, 280CE and 300CD, the British market only received the petrol options. 1978 saw the launch of the W123 estate, available with the 2.3, 2.5, 2.8 and 2.4 diesel engines as the 230T, 250T, 280TE and 240TD.
A facelift in 1980 brought rectangular halogen-beam headlamps to the whole range, previously only seen on coupes and 280Es. Rustproofing was stepped
