W123 230/280CE info

[robs-mbz]

Seems that I've been well and truly bitten by the Mercedes bug! I have developed a hankering for a W123 230/280CE, what should I look out for in the way of common faults and corrosion? What sort of fuel milage and performance would I expect?

 

[Hibbo]

www.w123.net has a buyers' guide written by Mr W123 himself, Mark Cosovich.

I won't bother prattling on, he explains it better than I ever could!

Gorgeous looking cars, much better than the 'saloon with back doors welded shut' w124 coupe

 

[nick45]

Oooh Hibbo, there you go again getting those 124 coupe boys' backs up, you tinker!

Rob, consensus seems to be that the 230 is the better engine as an all- rounder although you'll sacrifice a bit of power. These are stately cruisers though, so does that matter?

Look for corrosion generally but particularly on front valance - not an MOT issue I don't think but a definite problem area. I haven't seen one yet that isn't a bit nibbled. Other probs outside of the obvious checks are erratic electric windows/ sun roofs (if you've got a pillarless coupe you want to be able to exploit the fact!) and dodgy vacuum mechanisms which lead to the front seats not locking up in position. I solved this for MOT purposes with the prodigous application of four little bolts though - good tip from this forum.

Mine's done 190k - no smoke/ no knocks/ no rattles. Oh, and check it fits in your garage :Oops:

 

[robs-mbz]

Thanks for that Nick, I assume that if my W210 saloon fits in my garage then a w123 coupe will too!

 

[stever]

For the coupes - check the seat back locks work. Prone to breaking & MOT failure. Also check very thoroughly for water leaks (e.g under all carpets) - they are an absolute pain to find.

 

[FOZZY]

www.w123.net has a buyers' guide written by Mr W123 himself, Mark Cosovich.

I won't bother prattling on, he explains it better than I ever could!

Gorgeous looking cars, much better than the 'saloon with back doors welded shut' w124 coupe

A man with no taste w124 coupe is a beautiful looking car please use the nearest opticians :lol: