W123 280E Saloon.. Talk to me.

[elephantstone]

I spend last night window shopping through the classifieds and i have accidently enquired about a Y-reg Mercedes 280E. What should i look for if i accidently go and have a look at it? It looks absolutely spotless.

[elephantstone]

Bump

[SpeckledJim]

rust. hidey seeky rust.

cool car.

[N Dentressangle]

SpeckledJim said:

rust. hidey seeky rust.

cool car.

Yep - rust is about the only really, really expensive problem. Loads of buyers guides online, like this one:

http://www.classicsmonthly.com/files/2010/09/merc_...

Don't pay too much, and see if you actually like driving it first. 'Nimble' and 'responsive' aren't really the adjectives you'll be reaching for, but they have a charm.

[morgrp]

Largely bullet proof other than as already mentioned, rust. Look for signs of careful maintenance. If its an injection version make sure it idles well and there is no mischief from the mechanical injection system (Bosch D-jetronic i think?) Also make sure the timing chain is in good shape - no bearing whine or chatter from it. Other than that they really are knife and fork simple. Effectively the car that forged Merc's reputation for being the best - A reputation they have done their best to throw away. Getting rare now too so should appreciate in value.

[V8forweekends]

http://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/mercedes-...

[elephantstone]

N Dentressangle said:

Yep - rust is about the only really, really expensive problem. Loads of buyers guides online, like this one:

http://www.classicsmonthly.com/files/2010/09/merc_...

Don't pay too much, and see if you actually like driving it first. 'Nimble' and 'responsive' aren't really the adjectives you'll be reaching for, but they have a charm.

Apparently it is all solid and has been waxoiled "which is why it has survived so well".

Thinking about going to have a look at it this weekend. Would the 230 be that much cheaper to run?

[elephantstone]

I should really put a block on classifieds after i have bought a car, only had the MX5 for 4 Months and i am getting the itch for a new one already!!!

[morgrp]

280 is the one to have - 230 is great and really even more bulletproof but the 280 is a far more effortless performer - super rare 240d 3.0 is the one for economy and glacial performance

[0a]

I love the w123 - to me it's the ultimate Mercedes in 280 form.

However, unlike the w124 parts are no longer cheap. Silly things like window seals are prohibitive - there was an excellent classic Mercedes enthusiast article on them a few months back.

And the rust - be very careful, these things can look fantastic and hide the rust underneath.

[AnotherClarkey]

It's worth repeating - rust, rust, rust. Especially around the rear suspension mountings. To be honest I really liked my 230 and felt it had just the right level of performance to suit the rest of the car.