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Mercedes-Benz W123

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Mercedes-Benz W123
1984 Mercedes-Benz 280E (W123)
Overview
ManufacturerDaimler-Benz
ProductionNovember 1975–January 1986
2,696,915 built[1]
4-door: 2,375,410
Coupé: 99,884
Estate: 199,517
Limousine: 13,700
Chassis: 1,353
LWB chassis: 7,020
Model years1976–1986
Assembly
DesignerBruno Sacco, Friedrich Geiger (Saloon & coupe: 1973, T-Model: 1975)
Body and chassis
ClassExecutive car (E)
Body style4-door saloon (W123)
2-door coupé (C123)
5-door estate (S123)
4-door limousine (V123)
LayoutFR layout
RelatedMercedes-Benz E-Class
Powertrain
Engine
Transmission4-speed 722.1 automatic
4-speed 4G-TRONIC automatic
4-speed manual
5-speed manual
Dimensions
WheelbaseSaloon: 2,795 mm (110.0 in)
Coupé: 2,710 mm (106.7 in)
Limousine/ambulance/hearse: 3,425 mm (134.8 in)
Length4,725 mm (186.0 in)[3]
4,849 mm (190.9 in) (US bumpers)
4,640 mm (183 in) (Coupé)
4,763 mm (187.5 in) (Coupé US bumpers)
5,355 mm (210.8 in) (Limousine)
WidthSaloon: 1,784 mm (70.2 in)[3]
HeightSaloon: 1,435 mm (56.5 in)[3]
Curb weight1,390–1,650 kg (3,064.4–3,637.6 lb)
Chronology
PredecessorMercedes-Benz W114
SuccessorMercedes-Benz W124

The Mercedes-Benz W123 is a range of executive cars produced by German manufacturer Mercedes-Benz from November 1975 to January 1986. The W123 models surpassed their predecessor, the Mercedes-Benz W114, as the most successful Mercedes, selling 2.7 million units before production ended in the autumn of 1985 for the saloon/sedan versions and January 1986 for coupés and estates/station wagons.[4]

Following a slow production build-up during the first year, customers who placed their orders faced a lengthy waiting period of nine to twelve months. A black market emerged for the customers who were willing to pay more for immediate delivery. The slightly used W123 commanded about 5,000 Deutsche Mark premium over its original sale price.[5]

Like its predecessors, the W123 gained the reputation of being well built and reliable.[6] Many taxi companies chose the W123, and they were a common sight in Germany.[7] Reaching 500,000 or 1,000,000 km with only minor mechanical issues was common with W123s used as taxicabs.[8][9] Once the W123 reached the end of its service life, they were often shipped to Africa and third world countries where they were highly esteemed for their ability to travel on rough roads and to not require frequent maintenance.[10]

W123 production ended in January 1986 with 63 final T-models rolling out. The most popular single models were the 240D (455,000 built), the 230E (442,000 built), and the 200D (378,000 built).

Design

[edit]

The W123 shares technical similarities with its predecessors including engines, steering system, and suspension system. The design is updated with styling cues from its larger sibling, Mercedes-Benz W116, namely wider ribbed taillights, horizontal headlamps, front turn signal indicators on the outer edge, and pull-to-open door handles. The interior is revised with a larger instrument panel, central round ventilation outlets, HVAC (Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning) control panel and a single row of control switches in the centre.

The instrument panel has three large gauges placed behind a single plastic cover. The manual HVAC control panel has three large dials with the left and right for individual temperature control and the centre dial for fan speed control. Air flow is controlled by two sliders (left for upper zone and right for lower zone). If the optional air conditioning unit was ordered, a temperature roll dial was fitted to the row of control switches. The automatic HVAC control panel is simplified with a single roll disc on the left for temperature control, a row of push buttons in the middle for directing the air flow and switching the system on and off and a vertical set of buttons on the right for controlling the fan speed and switching automatic control on and off.

All models except the 280, 280E, and coupé feature larger round headlamps with smaller round fog lamps with large glass plate covering the entire headlamp housing and acting as a diffusing lens. This setup is the same for North American models with the sealed beam units and glass plate partially covering the headlamp housing. The 280, 280E, and coupé models use large rectangular headlamps with round fog lamps. The headlamp washers and wipers set are optional.

Nomenclatures

[edit]

Per Mercedes-Benz tradition (prior to the 1994 change), model designation corresponded to the engine displacement, chassis type (coupé or estate/station wagon), fuel type (for diesel engines only), and availability of fuel injection system (for petrol engines only):

  • C for Coupé
  • T for Tourismus und Transport (estate/station wagon)

No designation was given for the long-wheelbase: it was simply called "Lang" (long) in the brochures and order forms.

  • D for Diesel
  • E for Einspritzung (fuel injection)

When the diesel engine is turbocharged, an emblem that reads "TURBO DIESEL" is affixed to the right side of the boot lid.

As for the chassis codes, W123 is the saloon/sedan, S123 the estate/station wagon, C123 the coupé, V123 the long-wheelbase saloon/sedan a.k.a. Lang, and F123 refers to the bare long-wheelbase chassis as used for ambulances and other conversions.

Model variations

[edit]

Saloon (W123)

[edit]

The four-door version went on sale on 29 January 1976.[11][12]

Coupé (C123)

[edit]

In the spring of 1977, a coupé version was introduced on a shortened wheelbase (2,710 mm (106.7 in) versus 2,795 mm (110.0 in) for the saloon).[11] The C123 was available as 230C (later 230CE) and as 280C and 280CE in most markets. Unlike the W123 saloon, the rectangular headlamps were fitted to the C123 regardless of engine type.

Limousine (V123)

[edit]

From August 1976, a long-wheelbase version (3,425 mm (134.8 in)) with seating for seven to eight was produced.[11] The limousine was built on a stretched W123 saloon/sedan chassis with lower side panels from the coupé behind the rear passenger doors. The elongated roof has the same C-pillar form as on the saloon/sedan. The rear passenger doors were custom-designed in rectangular shape and of the same length as the ones on the saloon/sedan. The engine options were 250, 240D, and 300D. A few 280E limousines were built as special orders.

Chassis (F123)

[edit]

The stretched limousine version was offered with complete front body clip (B-pillar forward) and strengthened chassis as the base for ambulances or hearses to be built by the conversion specialists such as Binz and Miesen. F stands for Fahrgestelle (chassis).

Estate (S123)

[edit]

At the 1977 IAA in Frankfurt, the brand's first-ever factory-built estate, S123, was introduced.[11] The letter T in the model designation stood for Tourismus und Transport (Touring and Transport). Previous estates had been custom-built by the coachbuilders, namely Binz. S123 production began in April 1978 at Mercedes-Benz Bremen factory. All engines except the 2-litre version of the M115 (petrol) and OM615 (diesel) were available in the range. When the M115 was replaced with the new M102 engine, a petrol-engined 200T also joined the range.

Convertible

[edit]

While Mercedes-Benz never built its own convertible, they have been built by external companies such as Crayford in the UK, who built the St. Tropez models, and also by Niko-Michaels in New York, USA. In the city of Hagen, Germany, until 2016 one small family owned firm- Baehr, have produced cabrio versions of the C123 Coupe models, and also sold kits for cabrio conversions of the same model.[13][14]

  • Mercedes-Benz 240D (W123) saloon (Euro-spec)
    Mercedes-Benz 240D (W123) saloon (Euro-spec)
  • Mercedes-Benz 240D (W123) saloon rear
    Mercedes-Benz 240D (W123) saloon rear
  • Mercedes-Benz 280TE (estate)
    Mercedes-Benz 280TE (estate)
  • 1977 Mercedes-Benz 230C
    1977 Mercedes-Benz 230C
  • 1983 Mercedes-Benz 280CE
    1983 Mercedes-Benz 280CE
  • Mercedes-Benz V123 "Lang" or Long Wheelbase
    Mercedes-Benz V123 "Lang" or Long Wheelbase

Engine

[edit]

All engines from the W114/W115 were carried over. The single new engine was the SOHC 2.5-litre M123 inline six. The 3-litre, five-cylinder diesel engine received a proper nomenclature for the W123, matching the engine displacement: 300D instead of 240D 3.0 on the previous W114/W115.

In the autumn of 1978, the power output of the 240D was increased from 65 PS (48 kW; 64 hp) to 72 PS (53 kW; 71 hp) and of the 280E from 177PS to 185 PS. In early 1979, the power output rose from 55 PS (40 kW; 54 hp) to 60 PS (44 kW; 59 hp) for the 200D and from 80 PS (59 kW; 79 hp) to 88 PS (65 kW; 87 hp) for the 300D. The 220D was discontinued after 1979.[11]

In June 1980, the new M102 four-cylinder inline petrol engine replaced the M115. The 2-litre version was only available with a carburetor while the 2.3-litre version was available with fuel injection only. The carbureted version of 2.8-litre M110 engine in the 280 and 280C was discontinued in 1981 leaving the 250 as the sole carbureted six-cylinder inline engine.[11]

The world's first turbocharged diesel engine for a passenger vehicle, the OM617 A, was finally introduced in W123 models in September 1979, exclusive to the 300TD Turbodiesel for the European market. The same engine was offered in North America and Japan in 1981 as the 300D Turbodiesel, 300CD Turbodiesel, and 300TD Turbodiesel.[11][15]

Some engines in the W123 were mounted with small shock absorbers in addition to industry standard motor mounts to reduce felt vibration and a provide a smoother ride. These designs were carried over from previous chassis models like the W114/W115.

Road Race

[edit]
1977 280E that won 1977 London–Sydney Marathon in MB Museum

One notable achievement was in the 28,200 km (17,500 mi)[16] 1977 London–Sydney Marathon road race, where the 280E won first and second, ahead of the third and fourth place Citroën CX.[17]

North American sales

[edit]

For the North American market, the C123 (coupé) was available with both petrol (280CE) and naturally aspirated diesel (300CD) until 1981. For the 1982 model year, the 280CE was dropped, and the 300CD Turbodiesel was introduced as a sole engine offering for coupé model.

The estate/station wagon was available with a 3-litre five-cylinder inline OM617 diesel engine only. The naturally aspirated 300TD was sold for two years (1979-1980) until the turbocharged 300TD Turbodiesel replaced it from autumn 1980 because consumers found the 300TD to be too heavy and too slow with the less powerful engine.[18] 300TD Turbodiesel preceded 300D Turbodiesel and 300CD Turbodiesel by a few months.

The petrol engines (230, 280E, and 280CE) were offered from 1976 to 1980 model years. From 1981 until 1985, W123 models were sold only with diesel engines to comply with the federal regulation on corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) without paying heavy penalties.[19] The American consumers also preferred the diesel engines for lower fuel consumption after two oil crises and fuel shock of 1973 and 1979.[citation needed]

Four-speed manual gearboxes were offered with four-cylinder inline engines (2.3-litre M115 petrol and 2.4-litre OM616 Diesel) only. The new 5-speed manual gearboxes were never offered by Mercedes-Benz itself on the North American market.

The North American version of W123 differs from European version due to the US Department of Transportation automotive regulations along with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) automotive emission control regulations. Autoweek writes "the visual changes were on the mild side" compared to U.S. Models of the Mercedes-Benz R107 and Mercedes-Benz W116, which have been described by journalists as if a "beautiful car was beaten with the malaise ugly stick."[4][20]

Notable exterior differences included

  • Larger and stronger bumpers that resist collision damage up to 5 mph
  • Round sealed beam headlamp capsules and fog lamps; the large glass covers partially the housing. The fog lamps had clear lens until 1980 model year when they were tinted yellow
  • Amber-coloured retroreflective markers on the front turn signal indicators which double as night illumination
  • Red-coloured retroreflective markers at side edge of taillamps
  • Location of ID-tag on A-pillar
  • Emission control device for petrol engines only
  • Radio with different frequency steps when tuning to different radio stations
  • 85 mph maximum speedometer with 55 mph prominently marked
  • Tinted glass band across the top of front windscreen
  • If passenger side external rear view mirror is included, the mirror must carry the warning: "Vehicles are closer than they appear"
  • Mercedes-Benz W123 sedan (US)
    Mercedes-Benz W123 sedan (US)
  • Mercedes-Benz 300CD Turbodiesel coupe (US-version)
    Mercedes-Benz 300CD Turbodiesel coupe (US-version)
  • 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300TD Turbo Diesel estate
    1985 Mercedes-Benz 300TD Turbo Diesel estate

Equipment and features

[edit]

The standard and optional features are numerous along with a large number of engine and gearbox options. Customers could choose cloth, MB-Tex vinyl, velour or leather for the upholstery as well as interior wood trim for dashboard and centre console. The paint and interior colour palettes are extensive as well.

The driving dynamic enhancement options for extra cost became more extensive over the time: ABS (from August 1980 onward), self-locking differential gear, five-speed manual gearbox (introduced in 1982 for European markets only), Tempomat cruise control system, power steering system (standard from 1982 onward), passenger-side external rear view mirror (standard on S123 model), "Alpine" horn with selectable loudness (popular in Switzerland due to strict noise regulations), retractable steering column (from 1982 onward) and so forth.

The extra-cost options for creature comforts include power windows (with a cut-off switch for the rear passenger door windows), vacuum-powered central locking system, sunroof (manual and electric), air conditioning system (manual or automatic control), seats with orthopaedic support, electrically heated seats (all seats were individually ordered), pre-heating system (for heating the passenger compartment at a pre-selected time when the engine is not running), an assortment of different radios with and without cassette players, rear seat head rests, etc. The W123s destined for the North American market tended to have more features as standard, reflecting the American customer's preference for luxury accessories. For the first time in an executive saloon from Mercedes-Benz, the W123 had the option of fully automatic climate control at extra cost. This option was popular in the North American and Japanese markets. A rare option was a column gear selector that could be ordered with an automatic gearbox if the customer wished. The most expensive option was the Becker radio telephone, selling for 13,512 Deutsche Mark.

In the estate/station wagon model, a third row rear-facing foldable seat was offered as an extra cost option.

Updates

[edit]

Mercedes-Benz updated the W123 in incremental steps, calling them series:

  • Series 0.5, November 1975 – July 1976
  • First Series, August 1976 – July 1979
  • Second Series, August 1979 – August 1982
  • Third Series, September 1982 – January 1986
1977 Mercedes-Benz 230 interior

Changes to the second series (from August 1979):

  • smaller steering wheel (10 mm) in a more elegant design
  • modernized toggle switches with smoother edges (hazard lights, windows, etc.)
  • pneumatic headlamp leveling system
  • modified belt buckles and smaller headrests
  • new fabric patterns for the seats
Mercedes-Benz W123 with passenger airbag

Changes to the third series (from September 1982):

  • Rectangular headlights and power steering as standard for entire model range
  • Molded front seat backrests for more knee freedom in the rear
  • Cloth insert in the door panels
  • Zebrano wood paneling in the dashboard
  • Reduced wind noise due to improved roof trim strips
  • Ventilation outlets are no longer chrome-plated
  • Driver's airbag available as optional equipment

For the 1981 model year, the automatic climate control panel from the W126 S-Class with a simplified icon design was adopted. A new five-speed manual gearbox was introduced in February 1982 and was available in all models except those with the 3-litre turbocharged diesel engine but not in North America. This gearbox was only offered to North America via the grey market.

In September 1982, the driver's airbag with seat belt pre-tensioners for the passenger were offered as a 1,762.80 Deutsche Mark option for all models from the 1983 model year onward.[21] Very few W123s had both driver and passenger air bags. The passenger air bag used a pyrotechnic gas discharge design, a world's first.[22]

Copies

[edit]

The W123 was officially produced by FAW in China from 1987 until 1988, as a 200 sedan or as a long wheelbase 230E. Only 828 cars were built in their Changchun plant.[2] Another Chinese company called Bamin Automobile made W123 lookalikes using other parts. Bamin was a People's Liberation Army-owned company located in Minhou. Their W123 copy was built on the chassis of the Bamin BM212A/213A, a copy of the Beijing BJ212 and came in a few different bodystyles. There was a four-door pickup called the BM2022A (or the better equipped BM1020KHA) and a wagon derived from it, as well as the BM1020KH/BM6480 (proper station wagons).[23] The Chinese copies used the 2.4-litre BJ492 pushrod inline-four engine from the BJ212.

Technical data

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Rest of World

[edit]
Petrol Engines
Model Chassis Years Configuration Displ. Fuel Delivery Power Torque Empty
Weight 		0–100 km/h
(0–62 mph) 		Top
Speed 		Fuel
Consumption 		Units
200 123.020 2/76–8/80 M115 V 20
(115.938)
I4 		1988 cc Carburettor 94 PS (69 kW; 93 hp) at 4,800 rpm 158 N⋅m (117 lb⋅ft) at 3,000 rpm 1,340 kg
(2,950 lb) 		15.2 s 160 km/h
(99 mph) 		12.3 L/100 km
(19.1 mpg‑US) 		158,772
123.220 9/80–11/85 M102 V 20
(102.920)
I4 		1997 cc Carburettor 109 PS (80 kW; 108 hp) at 5,200 rpm 170 N⋅m (125 lb⋅ft) at 3,000 rpm 1,350 kg
(2,980 lb) 		14.4 s 168 km/h
(104 mph) 		10.2 L/100 km
(23 mpg‑US) 		217,315
200T 123.280 11/80–1/86 1,470 kg
(3,240 lb) 		15.3 s 10.4 L/100 km
(23 mpg‑US) 		18,860
230 123.023 2/76–8/80 M115 V 23
(115.954)
I4 		2307 cc Carburettor 109 PS (80 kW; 108 hp) at 4,800 rpm 186 N⋅m (137 lb⋅ft) at 2,500 rpm 1,350 kg
(2,980 lb) 		13.7 s 170 km/h
(106 mph) 		12.2 L/100 km
(19.3 mpg‑US) 		196,185
230C 123.083 6/77–8/80 1,375 kg
(3,031 lb) 		12.1 L/100 km
(19.4 mpg‑US) 		18,675
230T 123.043 5/78–4/80 1,470 kg
(3,240 lb) 		12.2 L/100 km
(19.3 mpg‑US) 		6,884
230E 123.223 7/80–11/85 M102 E 23
(102.980)
I4 		2299 cc Bosch K-Jetronic Fuel Injection 136 PS (100 kW; 134 hp) at 5,100 rpm 205 N⋅m (151 lb⋅ft) at 3,500 rpm 1,360 kg
(3,000 lb) 		11.5 s 180 km/h
(112 mph) 		10.4 L/100 km
(23 mpg‑US) 		245,876
230CE 123.243 4/80–11/85 1,380 kg
(3,040 lb) 		29,858
230TE 123.283 4/80–9/86 1,480 kg
(3,260 lb) 		12.2 s 10.5 L/100 km
(22 mpg‑US) 		42,248
250 123.026 4/76–8/79 M123 V 25
(123.920)
I6 		2525 cc Carburettor 129 PS (95 kW; 127 hp) at 5,500 rpm 196 N⋅m (145 lb⋅ft) at 3,500 rpm 1,410 kg
(3,110 lb) 		11.3 s 185 km/h
(115 mph) 		12.8 L/100 km
(18.4 mpg‑US) 		117,684
9/79–9/81 M123 V 25
(123.921)
I6 		140 PS (100 kW; 140 hp) at 5,500 rpm 200 N⋅m (148 lb⋅ft) at 3,500 rpm
10/81–12/85 11.7 s
250T 123.086 5/78–8/79 M123 V 25
(123.920)
I6 		129 PS (95 kW; 127 hp) at 5,500 rpm 196 N⋅m (145 lb⋅ft) at 3,500 rpm 1,510 kg
(3,330 lb) 		11.9 s 185 km/h
(115 mph) 		12.8 L/100 km
(18.4 mpg‑US) 		7,704
9/79–9/81 M123 V 25
(123.921)
I6 		140 PS (100 kW; 140 hp) at 5,500 rpm 200 N⋅m (148 lb⋅ft) at 3,500 rpm
10/81–10/82 11.7 s
280 123.030 12/75–7/81 M110 V 28
(110.923)
I6 		2746 cc Carburettor 156 PS (115 kW; 154 hp) at 5,500 rpm 223 N⋅m (164 lb⋅ft) at 4,000 rpm 1,455 kg
(3,208 lb) 		10.6 s 190 km/h
(118 mph) 		13.8 L/100 km
(17.0 mpg‑US) 		33,206
280C 123.050 4/77–3/80 13.1 L/100 km
(18.0 mpg‑US) 		3,704
280E 123.033 12/75–3/78 M110 E 28
(110.984)
I6 		Bosch K-Jetronic 177 PS (130 kW; 175 hp) at 6,000 rpm 234 N⋅m (173 lb⋅ft) at 4,500 rpm 1,475 kg
(3,252 lb) 		9.9 s 200 km/h
(124 mph) 		13.3 L/100 km
(17.7 mpg‑US) 		126,004
4/78–9/81 M110 E 28
(110.988)
I6 		185 PS (136 kW; 182 hp) at 5,800 rpm 240 N⋅m (177 lb⋅ft) at 4,500 rpm
10/81–12/85 12 L/100 km
(20 mpg‑US)
280CE 123.053 4/77–3/78 M110 E 28
(110.984)
I6 		177 PS (130 kW; 175 hp) at 6,000 rpm 234 N⋅m (173 lb⋅ft) at 4,500 rpm 1,475 kg
(3,252 lb) 		9.9 s 200 km/h
(124 mph) 		13.3 L/100 km
(17.7 mpg‑US) 		32,176
4/78–9/81 M110 E 28
(110.988)
I6 		185 PS (136 kW; 182 hp) at 5,800 rpm 240 N⋅m (177 lb⋅ft) at 4,500 rpm
10/81–8/85 12 L/100 km
(20 mpg‑US)
280TE 123.093 5/78-8/78 M110 E 28
(110.984)
I6 		177 PS (130 kW; 175 hp) at 6,000 rpm 234 N⋅m (173 lb⋅ft) at 4,500 rpm 1,475 kg
(3,252 lb) 		9.9 s 200 km/h
(124 mph) 		13.3 L/100 km
(17.7 mpg‑US) 		19,789
9/78–9/81 M110 E 28
(110.988)
I6 		185 PS (136 kW; 182 hp) at 5,800 rpm 240 N⋅m (177 lb⋅ft) at 4,500 rpm
10/81–1/86 12 L/100 km
(20 mpg‑US)
Diesel Engines
Model Chassis Years Configuration Displ. Fuel Delivery Power Torque Empty
Weight 		0–100 km/h
(0–62 mph) 		Top
Speed 		Fuel
Consumption 		Units
200D 123.120 2/76–1/79 OM 615 D 20
(615.940)
I4 		1988 cc Fuel Injection
with precombustion chamber 		55 PS (40 kW; 54 hp) at 4,200 rpm 113 N⋅m (83 lb⋅ft) at 2,400 rpm 1,390 kg
(3,060 lb) 		31 s 130 km/h
(81 mph) 		8.9 L/100 km
(26 mpg‑US) 		378,138
2/79–4/85 60 PS (44 kW; 59 hp) at 4,400 rpm 113 N⋅m (83 lb⋅ft) at 2,500 rpm 27.4 s 135 km/h
(84 mph)
220D 123.126 2/76–3/79 OM 615 D 22
(615.941)
I4 		2197 cc 60 PS (44 kW; 59 hp) at 4,200 rpm 126 N⋅m (93 lb⋅ft) at 2,400 rpm 1,380 kg
(3,040 lb) 		28.1 s 135 km/h
(84 mph) 		9 L/100 km
(26 mpg‑US) 		56.736
240D 123.123 2/76–7/78 OM 616 D 24
(616.916)
I4 		2404 cc 65 PS (48 kW; 64 hp) at 4,200 rpm 137 N⋅m (101 lb⋅ft) at 2,400 rpm 1,395 kg
(3,075 lb) 		24.6 s 138 km/h
(86 mph) 		9.3 L/100 km
(25 mpg‑US) 		449,780
8/78–9/81 OM 616 D 24
(616.912)
I4 		2399 cc 72 PS (53 kW; 71 hp) at 4,400 rpm 22 s 143 km/h
(89 mph)
10/81–11/85 8.9 L/100 km
(26 mpg‑US)
240TD 123.183 5/78–8/79 OM 616 D 24
(616.912)
I4 		2404 cc 65 PS (48 kW; 64 hp) at 4,200 rpm 137 N⋅m (101 lb⋅ft) at 2,400 rpm 1,515 kg
(3,340 lb) 		25.8 s 138 km/h
(86 mph) 		9.6 L/100 km
(25 mpg‑US) 		38,903
9/79–1/86 2399 cc 72 PS (53 kW; 71 hp) at 4,400 rpm 23.2 s 143 km/h
(89 mph) 		8.9 L/100 km
(26 mpg‑US)
300D 123.130 2/76–8/79 OM 617 D 30
(617.912)
I5 		3005 cc 80 PS (59 kW; 79 hp) at 4,000 rpm 172 N⋅m (127 lb⋅ft) at 2,400 rpm 1,450 kg
(3,200 lb) 		19.9 s 148 km/h
(92 mph) 		9.9 L/100 km
(24 mpg‑US) 		324,718
9/79–9/81 2998 cc 88 PS (65 kW; 87 hp) at 4,400 rpm 17.8 s 155 km/h
(96 mph)
10/81–11/85 9.3 L/100 km
(25 mpg‑US)
300CD 123.150 9/77–8/79 3005 cc 80 PS (59 kW; 79 hp) at 4,000 rpm 172 N⋅m (127 lb⋅ft) at 2,400 rpm 1,450 kg
(3,200 lb) 		20.8 s 143 km/h
(89 mph) 		9.9 L/100 km
(24 mpg‑US) 		7,502
9/79–8/81 2998 cc 88 PS (65 kW; 87 hp) at 4,400 rpm 19.2 s 150 km/h
(93 mph)
300TD 123.190 5/78–8/79 3005 cc 80 PS (59 kW; 79 hp) at 4,000 rpm 172 N⋅m (127 lb⋅ft) at 2,400 rpm 1,570 kg
(3,460 lb) 		20.9 s 148 km/h
(92 mph) 		9.9 L/100 km
(24 mpg‑US) 		36,874
9/79–9/81 2998 cc 88 PS (65 kW; 87 hp) at 4,400 rpm 18.9 s 155 km/h
(96 mph)
9/81–1/86 9.3 L/100 km
(25 mpg‑US)
300D Turbodiesel
(USA only) 		123.133 8/81–9/82 OM 617 D 30 A
(617.952)
I5 turbo 		2998 cc Fuel Injection
with precombustion chamber
and turbocharger 		121 PS (89 kW; 119 hp) at 4,350 rpm 230 N⋅m (170 lb⋅ft) at 2,400 rpm 1,525 kg
(3,362 lb) 		14.0 s 165 km/h
(103 mph) 		9.9 L/100 km
(24 mpg‑US) 		75,261
10/82–8/85 125 PS (92 kW; 123 hp) at 4,350 rpm 250 N⋅m (184 lb⋅ft) at 2,400 rpm 170 km/h
(106 mph)
300CD Turbodiesel
(USA only) 		123.153 7/81–9/82 1,625 kg
(3,583 lb) 		14.0 s 165 km/h
(103 mph) 		Un­known 8,007
10/82-8/85 170 km/h
(106 mph)
300TD Turbodiesel 123.193 10/80–8/81 1,625 kg
(3,583 lb) 		15.0 s 165 km/h
(103 mph) 		9.9 L/100 km
(24 mpg‑US) 		28,219
9/81–1/86 9.8 L/100 km
(24 mpg‑US)

North America and Japan

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In these markets, only the following models were offered:[24]

Model Years Engine Power Torque
Petrol Engines
230 1977–1978 2.3 L M115 I4 93 hp (69 kW) at 4,800 125 lb⋅ft (169 N⋅m) at 2,500
280E 1977–1979 2.8 L M110 fuel injected I6 142 hp (106 kW) at 5,750 149 lb⋅ft (202 N⋅m) at 4,600
1980–1981 140 hp (104 kW) at 5,500 145 lb⋅ft (197 N⋅m) at 4,600
280CE 1977–1979 2.8 L M110 fuel injected I6 142 hp (106 kW) at 5,750 149 lb⋅ft (202 N⋅m) at 4,600
1980–1981 140 hp (104 kW) at 5,500 145 lb⋅ft (197 N⋅m) at 4,600
Diesel Engines
240D 1977–1980 2.4 L OM616 I4 62 hp (46 kW) at 4,000 97 lb⋅ft (132 N⋅m) at 2,400
1981–1985 67 hp (50 kW) at 4,000 97 lb⋅ft (132 N⋅m) at 2,400
300D 1977–1981 3.0 L OM617.912 I5 77 hp (57 kW) at 4,000 115 lb⋅ft (156 N⋅m) at 2,400
300CD 1978–1981
300TD 1979–1980
300D Turbodiesel 1981–1985 3.0 L OM617 A I5 turbo 123 hp (92 kW) at 4,350 181 lb⋅ft (245 N⋅m) at 2,400
300CD Turbodiesel
300TD Turbodiesel

References

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Notes

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  1. ^ Deutsche Autos, Band 4, 2001, p. 99.
  2. ^ a b de Feijter, Tycho (8 May 2010). "FAW based Mercedes 200 in China". Car News China. Archived from the original on 20 February 2016.
  3. ^ a b c Hutton, Ray, ed. (16 September 1978). "Autotest: Mercedes-Benz 200". Autocar. 149 (4271): 26–31.
  4. ^ a b JAY RAMEY (1 February 2016). "Mercedes W123 hits the big 4-0 The grandfather of the E-Class is still a daily driver all around the world". Autoweek.
  5. ^ Richarz, Hans-Robert (1 September 1976). "Sterntaler: Mercedes-Wagen zu Schwarzmarktpreisen" [Top Dollars: Mercedes cars at black market prices]. Auto, Motor und Sport (in German) (18): 8–9.
  6. ^ "Simply Refusing To Die: Here's What Makes The Mercedes W123 One Of The Longest Lasting Cars On The Road". Hot Cars. 3 April 2021. Retrieved 28 December 2023.
  7. ^ "CC Outtake: A Mercedes-Benz W123 Taxi In 2016". Classic Curbside. 11 March 2016. Retrieved 28 December 2023.
  8. ^ "The Mercedes-Benz W123 Is A Classic German Sedan That Could Last You 1 Million Miles". Hot Cars. 30 October 2023. Retrieved 28 December 2023.
  9. ^ "8 Mercedes Cars That Have Driven More Than A Million Kilometers". Hot Cars. 4 April 2021. Retrieved 28 December 2023.
  10. ^ "Is the Mercedes benz w123 the cheapest mb to maintain?". 18 January 2005.
  11. ^ a b c d e f g Deutsche Autos, Band 4, 2001, pp. 96–111.
  12. ^ Perlas, Giancarlo (28 January 2016). "Mercedes-Benz W123 Celebrates Its 40th Anniversary". BenzInsider. Retrieved 29 January 2016.
  13. ^ "Wertanlage: Mercedes-Benz 230 CE Cabriolet: Einmal offen, immer offen: Gut erhaltener W123 Bähr-Cabrio-Umbau - Classic".
  14. ^ "Mercedes W123 – som cabriolet!". Klassiker. 17 July 2019. Retrieved 24 July 2019.
  15. ^ "Preisliste W123 Nummer 28 ab 1 September 1979".
  16. ^ "The World's 10 Longest Auto Races". 6 February 2012. Retrieved 15 May 2017.
  17. ^ eWRC-results.com. "Singapore Airlines London-Sydney Marathon 1977 - results eWRC-results.com". eWRC-results.com. Retrieved 15 May 2017.
  18. ^ Hogg, Tony (ed.). "1981 Buyer's Guide". Road & Track's Road Test Annual & Buyer's Guide 1981 (January–February 1981): 107.
  19. ^ "Four Sports Coupes", Road & Track's Road Test Annual & Buyer's Guide 1979, Greenwich, CT: CBS Publications, pp. 161–162, January–February 1979
  20. ^ Tyler Hoover (9 February 2017). "A Tale of Two Mercedes: When the Grey Market Made U.S.-Spec Cars Compete With Euro Models". Autotrader.
  21. ^ "W123 Preisliste Nr. 36 gültig ab 01.09.1982 (W123 Price List Number 36 in effect from 1 September 1982" (in German).
  22. ^ "E-Klasse Typ 123 Limousine, 1975 - 1986". Mercedes-Benz (in German). Retrieved 11 September 2021.
  23. ^ de Feijter, Tycho (12 October 2012). "China Car History: the Benz-like vehicles of Bamin Automobile". Car News China. Archived from the original on 11 June 2019.
  24. ^ Mike Covello: Standard Catalog of Imported Cars 1946–2002. Krause Publications, Iola 2002, ISBN 0-87341-605-8, p. 539-43.

Bibliography

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General

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  • Barrett, Frank (1998). Illustrated Buyer's Guide Mercedes-Benz. Motorbooks International Illustrated Buyer's Guide series (2nd ed.). Osceola, WI, USA: MBI Publishing. ISBN 0-7603-0451-3.
  • Buckley, Martin; Cosovich, Mark (2014). Mercedes-Benz W123: the Finest Saloon Car of the 20th Century?. Independent Publishing Network. ISBN 9781782803720.
  • Clarke, R.M., ed. (1987). On Mercedes 1971-1979. Road & Track Series. Cobham, Surrey, UK: Brooklands Books. ISBN 1-869826-42-6.
  • Döhmann, Lars (2021). Mercedes-Benz W 123. Bewegte Zeiten series (in German). Bielefeld, Germany: Delius Klasing. ISBN 9783667119650.
  • Hofner, Heribert; Schrader, Halwart (2005). Mercedes-Benz Automobile [Mercedes-Benz Automobiles] (in German). Vol. Band 2: von 1964 bis heute [Volume 2: from 1964 to today]. Königswinter, Germany: Heel Verlag. ISBN 3898804194.
  • ——————— (2010). Mercedes-Benz Typenkunde [Mercedes-Benz Type Study] (in German). Vol. Band 1. Die Modelle der Mittelklasse von 1947 bis 1986, 170 V bis Baureihe 123 [Volume 1. The mid-range models from 1947 to 1986, 170 V to 123 series]. Bielefeld, Germany: Delius Klasing. ISBN 9783768832250.
  • Kaak, Ulf (2013). Mercedes W 123: Typengeschichte und Technik [Mercedes W 123: Type History and Technology] (in German). München: GeraMond. ISBN 9783862457038.
  • Kittler, Eberhard (2002). Mercedes-Benz. Typenkompass series (in German). Vol. Band 2. Personenwagen seit 1976 [Volume 2. Passenger Cars since 1976]. Stuttgart: Motorbuch Verlag. ISBN 3-613-02209-5.
  • Knaack, Ulrich (2006). Mercedes-Benz W 123: 1975–1985. Schrader-Typen-Chronik series (in German). Stuttgart: Motorbuch Verlag. ISBN 978-3613025585.
  • Larimer, Fred (2004). Mercedes-Benz Buyer's Guide: Roadsters, Coupes, and Convertibles. St. Paul, MN, USA: MBI Publishing. ISBN 0760318115.
  • Long, Brian (2015). Mercedes-Benz W123-series: 1976-1986. Dorchester, Dorset, UK: Veloce Publishing. ISBN 9781845847920.
  • Meredith, Laurence (2003). Mercedes-Benz Saloons: The Classic Models of the 1960s and 1970s. Crowood AutoClassic Series. Ramsbury, Marlborough, UK: The Crowood Press. ISBN 1861265182.
  • Niemann, Harry (2006). Personenwagen von Mercedes-Benz: Automobillegenden und Geschichten seit 1886 [Passenger Cars from Mercedes-Benz: Automobile Legends and Stories since 1886] (in German). Stuttgart: Motorbuch Verlag. ISBN 3613025965.
  • Nitske, W. Robert (1995). Mercedes-Benz Production Models Book 1946-1995 (4th ed.). Osceola, WI, USA: MBI Publishing. ISBN 0-7603-0245-6.
  • Oswald, Werner [in German] (2001). Deutsche Autos [German Cars] (in German). Vol. Band [Volume] 4: 1945–1990 Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Porsche und andere [and others]. Stuttgart: Motorbuch Verlag. ISBN 3613021315.
  • ——————— (2001). Mercedes-Benz Personenwagen [Mercedes-Benz Passenger Cars] (in German). Vol. Band 2: 1945–1985 [Volume 2: 1945–1985]. Stuttgart: Motorbuch Verlag. ISBN 3613021684.
  • Parish, Julian (2018). Mercedes-Benz W123: All models 1976 to 1986. The Essential Buyer's Guide series. Dorchester, Dorset, UK: Veloce Publishing. ISBN 9781845849269.
  • Rohde, Michael; Sirup, Jens-Peter (2004). Mercedes-Benz W 123 (in German). Königswinter: Heel Verlag. ISBN 389880254X.
  • Schlegelmilch, Rainer W. [in German]; Lehbrink, Hartmut; von Osterroth, Jochen (2013). Mercedes (revised ed.). Königswinter, Germany: Ullmann Publishing. ISBN 978-3-8480-0267-2.
  • Storz, Alexander F. (2017). Mercedes-Benz W 123. Schrader-Typen-Chronik series (in German). Stuttgart: Motorbuch Verlag. ISBN 9783613039575.
  • ————————— (2021). Mercedes-Benz W 123 Das meistgebaute Modell 1975–1986 (in German). Stuttgart: Motorbuch Verlag. ISBN 9783613043701.
  • Taylor, James (1986). Mercedes-Benz since 1945: A Collector's Guide. Vol. 3: The 1970s. Croydon, UK: Motor Racing Publications. ISBN 0-900549-97-1.
  • —————— (2019). Mercedes-Benz W123: The Complete Story. Crowood AutoClassic Series. Ramsbury, Marlborough, UK: The Crowood Press. ISBN 9781785006050.

Workshop manuals

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  • Berghoff, Mischa (2021). Mercedes W 123: Profitipps für Pflege und Werterhaltung [Mercedes W 123: Professional tips for care and value retention]. Youngtimer-Pflege series (in German). Königswinter, Germany: Heel Verlag. ISBN 9783898806381.
  • Etzold, Rüdiger (1994). Mercedes: 200/230/230 E/250/280/280 E – Typ W123 von 1/76 bis 12/84. So wird's gemacht, Band 56 (in German) (6th ed.). Bielefield, Germany: Delius Klasing. ISBN 3768805581.
  • ——————— (1994). Mercedes Diesel: 200 D / 220 D / 240 D / 300 D von 1/76 bis 12/84. So wird's gemacht, Band 57 (in German) (6th ed.). Bielefield, Germany: Delius Klasing. ISBN 376880559X.
  • Korp, Dieter (1987). Mercedes-Benz: 200 D / 220 D / 240 D / 300 D / 300 TD 1976 bis 1984. Jetzt helfe ich mir selbst series, Band 70 (in German). Stuttgart: Motorbuch Verlag. ISBN 3879435758.
  • —————— (1986). Mercedes-Benz: 200 / 230 /250 ab 1976. Jetzt helfe ich mir selbst series, Band 72 (in German). Stuttgart: Motorbuch Verlag. ISBN 387943607X.
  • —————— (c. 1986). Mercedes-Benz: 200/230 E ab Juli '80 bis Dez. '84. Jetzt helfe ich mir selbst series, Band 84 (in German). Stuttgart: Motorbuch Verlag. ISBN 3879438633.
  • Mellon, Thomas A, ed. (2001). Mercedes: Coupes/Sedans/Wagons, 1974-84 Repair Manual. Chilton Total Car Care Series. Radnor, PA, USA: Chilton; Sparkford, UK: Haynes Publishing. ISBN 0-8019-9076-9.
  • Reetz, Nikolai (2020). Perfekte Klassikerpflege Mercedes-Benz W 123 [Perfect Classic Care Mercedes-Benz W 123] (in German). Königswinter: Heel Verlag. ISBN 9783966641449.
  • Russek, Peter (1987). Mercedes-Benz W123 Series 200, 230E, 230CE, 230TE 2.0 and 2.3 Litre From 1980. Pocket Mechanic Vehicle Manual. Caversham, Reading, Berkshire, UK: Peter Russek Publications. ISBN 0907779611.
  • Warren, Larry; Haynes, John H. (1987). Mercedes-Benz Diesel 123 1976 thru 1985 Owner's Workshop Manual: 4 & 5 cyl 200D 220D 240D 240TD 300D 300CD 300TD. Haynes Service and Repair Manual Series. Sparkford, UK; Newbury Park, Calif., USA: Haynes Publishing. ISBN 0856966975.
  • Mercedes Benz 250 & 280 Owner's Workshop Manual: October 1976 to 1984 All models 2525 cc 2746 cc. Haynes Service and Repair Manual Series. Sparkford, UK: Haynes Publishing. 2014. ISBN 9780857337399.
  • Mercedes-Diesel 200 / 220 / 240 / 300 ab 1976 bis 1978. Reparaturanleitung series, Band 290, 291. (in German). Zug, Switzerland: Verlag Bucheli. 2012. ISBN 9783716813690.
  • Mercedes-Benz Serie 123 200 / 230 / 250 / 280 / 280E ab 1976 bis Mai 1980. Reparaturanleitung series, Band 309. (in German). Zug, Switzerland: Verlag Bucheli. 2013. ISBN 9783716813904.
  • Mercedes Serie 123 200 / 230E / 230CE / 230TE ab Juni 1980. Reparaturanleitung series, Band 788. (in German). Zug, Switzerland: Verlag Bucheli. 1988. ISBN 3716816701.
  • Mercedes 250 / 250T / 280E / 280TE / 280CE 1982–1984. Reparaturanleitung series, Band 853, 854. (in German). Zug, Switzerland: Verlag Bucheli. 1985. ISBN 3716817139.
  • Mercedes-Diesel 200D / 240D / 300D und Turbodiesel Serie 123 ab 1979. Reparaturanleitung series, Band 875, 876, 877. (in German). Zug, Switzerland: Verlag Bucheli. 1987. ISBN 3716817244.
  • Mercedes Diesel Serie 123 1976 bis 1978 200D / 220D / 240D / 300D. Reparaturanleitung series, Band 994, 995. (in German). Zug, Switzerland: Verlag Bucheli. 1990. ISBN 371681783X.
  • Mercedes Diesel Serie 123 ab September 1979 200D / 240D / 240TD / 300D / 300TD /300 Turbodiesel. Reparaturanleitung series, Band 1018. (in German). Zug, Switzerland: Verlag Bucheli. 1990. ISBN 3716817945.
  • Mercedes W123 Owners Workshop Manual: 1976–1986 – 200, 230, 230 E, 250, 280, 280E. Bryanston, South Africa: Technibooks (distributed by Brooklands Books, UK, and Motorbooks, USA). 1993. ISBN 0620164433.
  • Mercedes-Benz Technical Companion. Cambridge, MA, USA: Bentley Publishers. 2005. ISBN 978-0-8376-1033-7.
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