Mercedes-Benz W123

Last updated

Mercedes-Benz W123
123 280E 0477110307 (14wik).JPG
1982 Mercedes-Benz 280E (W123)
Overview
Manufacturer Daimler-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 years 1976–1986
Assembly
Designer Bruno Sacco, Friedrich Geiger (Saloon & coupe: 1973, T-Model: 1975)
Body and chassis
Class Executive car (E)
Body style 4-door saloon (W123)
2-door coupé (C123)
5-door estate (S123)
4-door limousine (V123)
Layout FR layout
Related Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Powertrain
Engine
Transmission 4-speed 722.1 automatic
4-speed 4G-TRONIC automatic
4-speed manual
5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase Saloon: 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 weight Saloon: 1,625 kg (3,582.5 lb) (turbodiesel, automatic)
Chronology
Predecessor Mercedes-Benz W114
Successor Mercedes-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]

Contents

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

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

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):

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

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

Saloon (W123)

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

Coupé (C123)

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)

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)

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)

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

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]

Engine

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

1977 280E that won 1977 London-Sydney Marathon in MB Museum Mercedes-Benz 280E 1977 London-Sydney Rally Cowan Mankin Broad RFront MBMuse 9June2013 (14980530761).jpg
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

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

Equipment and features

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

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

1977 Mercedes-Benz 230 interior Armaturenbrett W123.jpg
1977 Mercedes-Benz 230 interior

Changes to the second series (from August 1979):

Mercedes-Benz W123 with passenger airbag Beifahrerairbag W123.jpg
Mercedes-Benz W123 with passenger airbag

Changes to the third series (from September 1982):

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

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

Rest of World

Petrol Engines
ModelChassisYearsConfigurationDispl.Fuel DeliveryPowerTorqueEmpty
Weight
0–100 km/h
(0–62 mph)
Top
Speed
Fuel
Consumption
Units
200123.0202/768/80 M115 V 20
(115.938)
I4
1988 ccCarburettor94 PS (69 kW; 93 hp) at 4,800 rpm158 N⋅m (117 lb⋅ft) at 3,000 rpm1,340 kg
(2,950 lb)
15.2 s160 km/h
(99 mph)
12.3 L/100 km
(19.1 mpgUS)
158,772
123.2209/8011/85 M102 V 20
(102.920)
I4
1997 ccCarburettor109 PS (80 kW; 108 hp) at 5,200 rpm170 N⋅m (125 lb⋅ft) at 3,000 rpm1,350 kg
(2,980 lb)
14.4 s168 km/h
(104 mph)
10.2 L/100 km
(23 mpgUS)
217,315
200T123.28011/801/861,470 kg
(3,240 lb)
15.3 s10.4 L/100 km
(23 mpgUS)
18,860
230123.0232/768/80 M115 V 23
(115.954)
I4
2307 ccCarburettor109 PS (80 kW; 108 hp) at 4,800 rpm186 N⋅m (137 lb⋅ft) at 2,500 rpm1,350 kg
(2,980 lb)
13.7 s170 km/h
(106 mph)
12.2 L/100 km
(19.3 mpgUS)
196,185
230C123.0836/778/801,375 kg
(3,031 lb)
12.1 L/100 km
(19.4 mpgUS)
18,675
230T123.0435/784/801,470 kg
(3,240 lb)
12.2 L/100 km
(19.3 mpgUS)
6,884
230E123.2237/8011/85 M102 E 23
(102.980)
I4
2299 ccBosch K-Jetronic Fuel Injection136 PS (100 kW; 134 hp) at 5,100 rpm205 N⋅m (151 lb⋅ft) at 3,500 rpm1,360 kg
(3,000 lb)
11.5 s180 km/h
(112 mph)
10.4 L/100 km
(23 mpgUS)
245,876
230CE123.2434/8011/851,380 kg
(3,040 lb)
29,858
230TE123.2834/809/861,480 kg
(3,260 lb)
12.2 s10.5 L/100 km
(22 mpgUS)
42,248
250123.0264/768/79 M123 V 25
(123.920)
I6
2525 ccCarburettor129 PS (95 kW; 127 hp) at 5,500 rpm196 N⋅m (145 lb⋅ft) at 3,500 rpm1,410 kg
(3,110 lb)
11.3 s185 km/h
(115 mph)
12.8 L/100 km
(18.4 mpgUS)
117,684
9/799/81 M123 V 25
(123.921)
I6
140 PS (100 kW; 140 hp) at 5,500 rpm200 N⋅m (148 lb⋅ft) at 3,500 rpm
10/8112/8511.7 s
250T123.0865/788/79 M123 V 25
(123.920)
I6
129 PS (95 kW; 127 hp) at 5,500 rpm196 N⋅m (145 lb⋅ft) at 3,500 rpm1,510 kg
(3,330 lb)
11.9 s185 km/h
(115 mph)
12.8 L/100 km
(18.4 mpgUS)
7,704
9/799/81 M123 V 25
(123.921)
I6
140 PS (100 kW; 140 hp) at 5,500 rpm200 N⋅m (148 lb⋅ft) at 3,500 rpm
10/8110/8211.7 s
280123.03012/757/81 M110 V 28
(110.923)
I6
2746 ccCarburettor156 PS (115 kW; 154 hp) at 5,500 rpm223 N⋅m (164 lb⋅ft) at 4,000 rpm1,455 kg
(3,208 lb)
10.6 s190 km/h
(118 mph)
13.8 L/100 km
(17.0 mpgUS)
33,206
280C123.0504/773/8013.1 L/100 km
(18.0 mpgUS)
3,704
280E123.03312/753/78 M110 E 28
(110.984)
I6
Bosch K-Jetronic 177 PS (130 kW; 175 hp) at 6,000 rpm234 N⋅m (173 lb⋅ft) at 4,500 rpm1,475 kg
(3,252 lb)
9.9 s200 km/h
(124 mph)
13.3 L/100 km
(17.7 mpgUS)
126,004
4/789/81 M110 E 28
(110.988)
I6
185 PS (136 kW; 182 hp) at 5,800 rpm240 N⋅m (177 lb⋅ft) at 4,500 rpm
10/8112/8512 L/100 km
(20 mpgUS)
280CE123.0534/773/78 M110 E 28
(110.984)
I6
177 PS (130 kW; 175 hp) at 6,000 rpm234 N⋅m (173 lb⋅ft) at 4,500 rpm1,475 kg
(3,252 lb)
9.9 s200 km/h
(124 mph)
13.3 L/100 km
(17.7 mpgUS)
32,176
4/789/81 M110 E 28
(110.988)
I6
185 PS (136 kW; 182 hp) at 5,800 rpm240 N⋅m (177 lb⋅ft) at 4,500 rpm
10/818/8512 L/100 km
(20 mpgUS)
280TE123.0935/78-8/78 M110 E 28
(110.984)
I6
177 PS (130 kW; 175 hp) at 6,000 rpm234 N⋅m (173 lb⋅ft) at 4,500 rpm1,475 kg
(3,252 lb)
9.9 s200 km/h
(124 mph)
13.3 L/100 km
(17.7 mpgUS)
19,789
9/789/81 M110 E 28
(110.988)
I6
185 PS (136 kW; 182 hp) at 5,800 rpm240 N⋅m (177 lb⋅ft) at 4,500 rpm
10/811/8612 L/100 km
(20 mpgUS)
Diesel Engines
ModelChassisYearsConfigurationDispl.Fuel DeliveryPowerTorqueEmpty
Weight
0–100 km/h
(0–62 mph)
Top
Speed
Fuel
Consumption
Units
200D123.1202/761/79 OM 615 D 20
(615.940)
I4
1988 ccFuel Injection
with precombustion chamber
55 PS (40 kW; 54 hp) at 4,200 rpm113 N⋅m (83 lb⋅ft) at 2,400 rpm1,390 kg
(3,060 lb)
31 s130 km/h
(81 mph)
8.9 L/100 km
(26 mpgUS)
378,138
2/794/8560 PS (44 kW; 59 hp) at 4,400 rpm113 N⋅m (83 lb⋅ft) at 2,500 rpm27.4 s135 km/h
(84 mph)
220D123.1262/763/79 OM 615 D 22
(615.941)
I4
2197 cc60 PS (44 kW; 59 hp) at 4,200 rpm126 N⋅m (93 lb⋅ft) at 2,400 rpm1,380 kg
(3,040 lb)
28.1 s135 km/h
(84 mph)
9 L/100 km
(26 mpgUS)
56.736
240D123.1232/767/78 OM 616 D 24
(616.916)
I4
2404 cc65 PS (48 kW; 64 hp) at 4,200 rpm137 N⋅m (101 lb⋅ft) at 2,400 rpm1,395 kg
(3,075 lb)
24.6 s138 km/h
(86 mph)
9.3 L/100 km
(25 mpgUS)
449,780
8/789/81 OM 616 D 24
(616.912)
I4
2399 cc72 PS (53 kW; 71 hp) at 4,400 rpm22 s143 km/h
(89 mph)
10/8111/858.9 L/100 km
(26 mpgUS)
240TD123.1835/788/79 OM 616 D 24
(616.912)
I4
2404 cc65 PS (48 kW; 64 hp) at 4,200 rpm137 N⋅m (101 lb⋅ft) at 2,400 rpm1,515 kg
(3,340 lb)
25.8 s138 km/h
(86 mph)
9.6 L/100 km
(25 mpgUS)
38,903
9/791/862399 cc72 PS (53 kW; 71 hp) at 4,400 rpm23.2 s143 km/h
(89 mph)
8.9 L/100 km
(26 mpgUS)
300D123.1302/768/79 OM 617 D 30
(617.912)
I5
3005 cc80 PS (59 kW; 79 hp) at 4,000 rpm172 N⋅m (127 lb⋅ft) at 2,400 rpm1,450 kg
(3,200 lb)
19.9 s148 km/h
(92 mph)
9.9 L/100 km
(24 mpgUS)
324,718
9/799/812998 cc88 PS (65 kW; 87 hp) at 4,400 rpm17.8 s155 km/h
(96 mph)
10/8111/859.3 L/100 km
(25 mpgUS)
300CD123.1509/778/793005 cc80 PS (59 kW; 79 hp) at 4,000 rpm172 N⋅m (127 lb⋅ft) at 2,400 rpm1,450 kg
(3,200 lb)
20.8 s143 km/h
(89 mph)
9.9 L/100 km
(24 mpgUS)
7,502
9/798/812998 cc88 PS (65 kW; 87 hp) at 4,400 rpm19.2 s150 km/h
(93 mph)
300TD123.1905/788/793005 cc80 PS (59 kW; 79 hp) at 4,000 rpm172 N⋅m (127 lb⋅ft) at 2,400 rpm1,570 kg
(3,460 lb)
20.9 s148 km/h
(92 mph)
9.9 L/100 km
(24 mpgUS)
36,874
9/799/812998 cc88 PS (65 kW; 87 hp) at 4,400 rpm18.9 s155 km/h
(96 mph)
9/811/869.3 L/100 km
(25 mpgUS)
300D Turbodiesel
(USA only)
123.1338/819/82 OM 617 D 30 A
(617.952)
I5 turbo
2998 ccFuel Injection
with precombustion chamber
and turbocharger
121 PS (89 kW; 119 hp) at 4,350 rpm230 N⋅m (170 lb⋅ft) at 2,400 rpm1,525 kg
(3,362 lb)
14.0 s165 km/h
(103 mph)
9.9 L/100 km
(24 mpgUS)
75,261
10/828/85125 PS (92 kW; 123 hp) at 4,350 rpm250 N⋅m (184 lb⋅ft) at 2,400 rpm170 km/h
(106 mph)
300CD Turbodiesel
(USA only)
123.1537/819/821,625 kg
(3,583 lb)
14.0 s165 km/h
(103 mph)
Un­known8,007
10/82-8/85170 km/h
(106 mph)
300TD Turbodiesel123.19310/808/811,625 kg
(3,583 lb)
15.0 s165 km/h
(103 mph)
9.9 L/100 km
(24 mpgUS)
28,219
9/811/869.8 L/100 km
(24 mpgUS)

North America and Japan

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

ModelYearsEnginePowerTorque
Petrol Engines
2301977–19782.3 L M115 I4 93 hp (69 kW) at 4,800125 lb⋅ft (169 N⋅m) at 2,500
280E1977–19792.8 L M110 fuel injected I6 142 hp (106 kW) at 5,750149 lb⋅ft (202 N⋅m) at 4,600
1980–1981140 hp (104 kW) at 5,500145 lb⋅ft (197 N⋅m) at 4,600
280CE1977–19792.8 L M110 fuel injected I6 142 hp (106 kW) at 5,750149 lb⋅ft (202 N⋅m) at 4,600
1980–1981140 hp (104 kW) at 5,500145 lb⋅ft (197 N⋅m) at 4,600
Diesel Engines
240D1977–19802.4 L OM616 I4 62 hp (46 kW) at 4,00097 lb⋅ft (132 N⋅m) at 2,400
1981–198567 hp (50 kW) at 4,00097 lb⋅ft (132 N⋅m) at 2,400
300D1977–19813.0 L OM617.912 I5 77 hp (57 kW) at 4,000115 lb⋅ft (156 N⋅m) at 2,400
300CD1978–1981
300TD1979–1980
300D Turbodiesel1981–19853.0 L OM617 A I5 turbo 123 hp (92 kW) at 4,350181 lb⋅ft (245 N⋅m) at 2,400
300CD Turbodiesel
300TD Turbodiesel

Related Research Articles

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mercedes-Benz C-Class</span> Motor vehicle

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a series of compact executive cars produced by Mercedes-Benz Group AG. Introduced in 1993 as a replacement for the 190 (W201) range, the C-Class was the smallest model in the marque's line-up until the W168 A-Class arrived in 1997. The C-Class has been available with a "4MATIC" four-wheel drive option since 2002. The third generation (W204) was launched in 2007 while the current W206 generation was launched in 2021.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mercedes-Benz S-Class</span> Motor vehicle

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class, formerly known as Sonderklasse, is a series of full-sized luxury sedans, limousines and armored sedans produced by the German automaker Mercedes-Benz. The S-Class is the designation for top-of-the-line Mercedes-Benz models and was officially introduced in 1972 with the W116, and has remained in use ever since. The S-Class is one of the flagship vehicles for Mercedes-Benz.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mercedes-Benz E-Class</span> German executive car

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a range of executive cars manufactured by German automaker Mercedes-Benz in various engine and body configurations. Produced since 1953, the E-Class falls midrange in the Mercedes line-up, and has been marketed worldwide across five generations.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mercedes-Benz W201</span> Motor vehicle

The Mercedes-Benz W201 is the internal designation for the Mercedes 190 series sedans, a range of front-engine, rear drive, five passenger, four-door sedans manufactured over a single generation, from 1982 to 1993 as the company's first compact class automobile.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mercedes-Benz SL-Class</span> Motor vehicle

The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is a grand touring sports car manufactured by Mercedes-Benz since 1954. The designation "SL" derives from the German term "Sport-Leicht", which translates to "Sport Light" in English.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class</span> Motor vehicle

The Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class is a former series of mid-size or entry-level luxury coupés and convertibles produced by Mercedes-Benz between 1996 and 2010. Although its design and styling was derived from the E-Class, the mechanical underpinnings were based on the smaller C-Class, and was positioned between the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class and CL-Class. The name CLK is either derived from the German words "Coupé", "Luxus" (luxury) and "Kurz" (short) or "Coupé", "Leicht" (light) and "Kurz" (short), as the clear definition was never published. It primarily competes with the two-door BMW 3 and 6 Series, as well as the Audi A4 Cabriolet and Audi A5 Coupe/Cabriolet, as well as the Maserati Coupe and its convertible variant.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mercedes-Benz A-Class</span> Subcompact executive car

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class is a subcompact car manufactured by Mercedes-Benz and marketed across three generations as a front-engine, front-wheel drive, five-passenger, five-door hatchback, with a three-door hatchback offered for the second generation.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mercedes-Benz W110</span> Motor vehicle

The 1961 introduced W110 was Mercedes-Benz's standard line of mid-size automobiles for much of the 1960s. As part of Mercedes' unified platform of "Fintail" models – first introduced as a six-cylinder Mercedes W111 in 1959 – the W110 followed in April 1961, initially available with either 1.9 L M121 gasoline or 2.0 L OM621 diesel inline-four engines. The W110 was introduced as the 190c and 190Dc sedans, replacing the W120 180c/180Dc and W121 190b/190Db.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mercedes-Benz W114/W115</span> Motor vehicle

The Mercedes-Benz W114 and W115 are the internal designations Mercedes-Benz used for a generation of front-engine, rear-drive, five-passenger sedans and coupés introduced in 1968, with three-box styling by Paul Bracq — succeeding the W110 models introduced in 1961; and manufactured until model year 1976, when the W123 was released.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mercedes-Benz W124</span> Motor vehicle

The Mercedes-Benz W124 is a range of executive cars made by Daimler-Benz from 1984 to 1997. The range included numerous body configurations, and though collectively referred to as the W-124, official internal chassis designations varied by body style: saloon (W 124); estate (S 124); coupé (C 124); cabriolet (A 124); limousine (V 124); rolling chassis (F 124); and long-wheelbase rolling chassis (VF 124).

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mercedes-Benz OM617 engine</span> Reciprocating internal combustion engine

The OM617 engine family is a straight-5 diesel automobile engine from Mercedes-Benz used in the 1970s and 1980s. It is a direct development from the straight-4 OM616. It was sold in vehicles from 1974 to 1991. The OM617 is considered to be one of the most reliable engines ever produced with engines often reaching over 1,000,000 km (620,000 mi) without being rebuilt and is one of the key reasons for Mercedes' popularity in North America in the 1980s, as it was powerful and reliable compared to other automotive diesels of the time. It is also a very popular choice for the use of alternative fuels, mainly straight or waste vegetable oil and biodiesel, although the use of these fuels may cause engine damage over time if not processed properly before use.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mercedes-Benz W126</span> Car model

The Mercedes-Benz W126 is a series of passenger cars made by Daimler-Benz AG. It was marketed as the second generation of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and manufactured in sedan/saloon (1979–1991) as well as coupé (1981–1990) models, succeeding the company's W116 range. Mercedes-Benz introduced the 2-door C126 coupé model, marketed as the SEC, in September 1981. This generation was the first S-Class to have separate chassis codes for standard and long wheelbases and for coupé (C126).

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mercedes-Benz W108/W109</span> Motor vehicle

The Mercedes-Benz W108 and W109 are luxury cars produced by Mercedes-Benz from 1965 through to 1972. The line was an upgrade of the Mercedes-Benz W114/W115, to succeed the W111 and W112 fintail sedans. The cars were successful in West Germany and in export markets including North America and Southeast Asia. During the seven-year run, a total of 383,361 units were manufactured.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mercedes-Benz W116</span> Motor vehicle

The Mercedes-Benz W116 is a series of flagship luxury sedans produced from September 1972 until 1980. The W116 automobiles were the first Mercedes-Benz models to be officially called S-Class, although some earlier sedan models had already been designated unofficially with the letter 'S' for Sonderklasse. The W116 was selected as European Car of the Year in 1974.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mercedes-Benz W140</span> Mercedes-Benz S-Class model manufactured from 1991 to 1998

The Mercedes-Benz W140 is a series of flagship vehicles manufactured by Mercedes-Benz from 1991 to 1998 in sedan/saloon and coupe body styles and two wheelbase lengths. Mercedes-Benz unveiled the W140 S-Class at Geneva International Motor Show in March 1991, with the sales starting in April 1991 and North American launch was on 6 August 1991.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mercedes-Benz W111</span> Motor vehicle

The Mercedes-Benz W111 was a chassis code given to a range of Mercedes-Benz vehicles produced between 1959 and 1971, including four-door saloons (1959–1968) and two-door coupés and cabriolets (1961–1971). Their bodywork featured distinctive tailfins that gave the models their Heckflosse nickname — German for "fintail".

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mercedes-Benz Ponton</span> Motor vehicle

The Mercedes-Benz "Ponton" series is a range of sedans / saloon car models from Daimler-Benz, introduced starting in 1953, and subsequently nicknamed 'Ponton', referring to its ponton styling, a prominent styling trend that unified the previously articulated hood, body, fenders and runnings boards into a singular, often slab-sided envelope. At the time, Mercedes itself did not refer to any of its cars using the nickname.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mercedes-Benz W189</span> Motor vehicle

The Mercedes-Benz W189 model 300 was a four-door luxury tourer produced by Mercedes-Benz between 1957 and 1962. It was the company's flagship model at the time, equivalent to the modern S-Class and Maybach.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mercedes-Benz W112</span> Car model

The Mercedes-Benz W112 is a luxury automobile produced by Mercedes-Benz from 1961 to 1967. Marketed as the 300SE, it was available as a coupé, convertible, sedan, and stretched sedan (Lang), all generally similar in appearance to the corresponding Mercedes-Benz W111.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mercedes-Benz W186</span> Motor vehicle

The Mercedes-Benz W186 Model 300 was a four-door luxury sedan produced by Mercedes-Benz between 1951 and 1957. It was the company's flagship model at the time, succeeding the World War II era W150. Three versions were produced in succession, known informally as the 300a, 300b, and 300c. An enlarged "300d" variant built on the W189 chassis succeeded it in late 1957.

References

Notes

  1. Deutsche Autos, Band 4, 2001, p. 99.
  2. 1 2 de Feijter, Tycho (8 May 2010). "FAW based Mercedes 200 in China". Car News China. Archived from the original on 20 February 2016.
  3. 1 2 3 Hutton, Ray, ed. (16 September 1978). "Autotest: Mercedes-Benz 200". Autocar . 149 (4271): 26–31.
  4. 1 2 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. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 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

General

  • 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

  • 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.