Mercedes W123 - the history of the legendary body and one of the brightest cars of the 80s

Mercedes W123 is a German-made passenger car family that belongs to the E-Class. That is, to the business segment, if expressed differently. These machines were produced from 1976 to 1985. This model replaced the W114 \ W115. Of course, in comparison with these models, this version was much more modern. And in equipment, and in interior, and in appearance. Well, it is worth in this case to note separately, each of these factors.

mercedes w123

Production concept and creation story

First, I would like to say a few words about how the idea of โ€‹โ€‹creating a Mercedes 123 car came about. The fact is that by the mid-seventies, cars manufactured by the Stuttgart concern before that were already outdated. Therefore, the release of a new model was required. However, in those days there was a crisis. And to decide on this, it was necessary to be very brave people. But Mercedes-Benz would not be the concern we know today. The developers wanted to create a beautiful, practical and quite powerful (at that time) car. And they took a chance. And so it will turn out Mercedes W123. This model met the best, at that time, quality standards. So in December this car appeared to the eyes of potential buyers.

mercedes benz e w123

Briefly about the model

So, Mercedes W123 was outwardly similar to its predecessors. Body shape, to be precise. And all the units and assemblies (including vacuum brakes) delivered completely different, new ones. The only styling was decided to be based on the image of the representative of the S-class - model W116.

The first versions were six-cylinder - they included models such as 280 and 280E. However, in 1976, the series was updated. These machines were joined by the main models, which are by far the most famous. These are 200, 230, 200D, 240D, 300D, 250D. Almost all cars, as you can see, are diesel. And this is understandable, because, as mentioned above, the engineers of Mercedes had the task of creating an economical car. And diesel is inexpensive and slowly consumed.

In 1977, the coupe version was released. These were the models 230C, 280C and 280CE. Specifically for the United States market, a 300CD version was developed and released.

mercedes benz w123

Update

In 1978, another new model was released. Previously, until this year, station wagons were produced as special-order cars. But then they decided to make them "guests" of the lineup. Potential customers were available versions of both gasoline and diesel.

And in 1980, it was decided to conduct the first restyling. Naturally, the first thing Mercedes-Benz E W123 underwent cosmetic changes. In addition, several power units were removed from the line and replaced with other, more powerful and โ€œcleanโ€ ones. Injection motors became popular, which were 230E, 230SE and 230TE. They replaced the carburetor. There were also versions of the Mercedes-Benz W123 with diesel engines equipped with turbocharging. Initially, wagons were equipped with such units, then they could be seen under the hoods of sedans with a coupe.

In 1982, a model such as the W201 was released. The legendary economical 190th! He quickly became popular - attractive, inexpensive, lightweight, spacious, but nevertheless, the Mercedes E W123 still remained popular for a long time. Needless to say, over 11 years, the concern issued 2,696,915 copies! And this is a very solid indicator.

Specifications

Mercedes-Benz E W123 had good data. Its maximum speed could develop to an indicator of 190 km / h! A considerable indicator for a machine that was developed in the seventies.

But beyond that, the car boasted good pendants. The rear, for example, was used from a previous car. The front was taken from W116. In it, by the way, a stabilizer bar. On previous machines, as you might guess, he did not stand. Due to this addition, the sensations of roll on bends disappeared (with which the car, by the way, copes perfectly - especially after such an innovation). In addition, the intensity of the lateral buildup decreased.

Also, experts strengthened the level of passive safety by using the safety design of the steering column. Now, in the event of a frontal strike, she did not move from her place.

mercedes e w123

Complete set and equipment

In the end, I would like to say a few words about this. In the versions of the early to mid-80s there were such useful functions as, for example, heating the rear window (which turned on and off automatically) and heating for the driver and passenger (and separately adjustable). Also, designers decided to seal the doors from below. There was a function to automatically turn off the rear fog lights when the main lighting was turned off. Another model equipped with a brake pad wear indicator. Placed it, of course, on the dashboard. And the gas tank was moved - now it was behind the back seat. This was very correct, since in a similar way he avoided the crumple zone of the body.

Mercedes W123 is a legend car. And you can talk about it, as well as about the facts that are associated with this model, for a long time. But what can we say with confidence? The fact that she forever entered the hearts of lovers of classic old German cars. And now, by the way, you can find a good W123 in good condition for its age. It will cost about one hundred thousand rubles.


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