Mercedes celebrates the 40th anniversary W123. We take a look back at this model, which was a precursor to the current-day E Class.
Mercedes celebrates the 40th anniversary W123. We take a look back at the model, which was a predecessor to the new E-Class.
The W123 was first introduced in January 1976. It was a huge success and the entire production run sold out within a few days. Owners who sold their cars within the first year of production were eligible to ask for the original sticker prices.
Over the years, a variety of models were introduced including the classic coupe and estate versions as well as the long-wheelbase sedan (24.8 inches longer than the standard model). There were nine variants of the sedan, ranging in price from the 200 D up to the 280 E.
There were many engines to choose from, including a 2.5-liter six cylinder petrol engine with 127 horsepower and an eight-cylinder turbodiesel five-cylinder with 123 horsepower. Mercedes also looked into a few other powertrain options, including a bifuel engine that could be run on petrol and liquefied petroleum gases (LPG). Mercedes also created an electric prototype and a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, which were introduced in 1983.
Safety was another goal. Mercedes developed a stronger passenger cell with larger crumple zones. Airbags were also considered by engineers at an early stage. They became an option in 1982.
In the middle of the 1980s, the W123 was discontinued and Mercedes had sold almost 2.7 million units by the end of production.
