Mercedes-Benz W124
ENGINE 2997cc/6-cyl/OHC POWER 109bhp@4600rpm TORQUE 136lb ft@2800rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 113mph 0-60MPH 15.5sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 34-38mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed automatic MoT July 2018 ODOMETER 118,999 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
This three-owner car has clearly been well-maintained. The non– turbo six-cylinder diesel starts cleanly on the glow plugs and the automatic gearbox engages positively, moving up the gears and kicking down purposefully. It rides surprisingly quietly with no untoward rattles, clunks or bumps, and engine noise isn’t intrusive. Don’t expect lightning performance, but what speed you do build up is swiftly wiped off – and in a straight line – by the new all-round discs and pads.
BODYWORK CHECK
Overall it’s very smart, with dark metallic grey over dark silver paint and perfect alloy wheels. There’s evidence of recent paint work – a small amount of ‘orange peel’ on the offside rear flank – but nothing that a good cutting compound wouldn’t sort. Although there are some marks, they’re consistent with it being a very original car. It shows no rust or accident damage and the panel gaps are as the factory intended. Real age is only evident in perishing door seals and tired window trims – even the bumper corners have only the lightest of grazes. It could be a show-stopper with a little work, or a very smart alternative to a modern for everyday use.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
There are lots of unsymmetrical spaces on the dashboard where switches would be on higherspec models. The dark grey MB-Tex seats are in excellent condition with the only real wear being some damage to the underside of the armrest in the rear, plus some light wear to the leather-clad steering wheel. It’s been in regular use until very recently, so a good valet wouldn’t go amiss. The huge boot carpet is undamaged, cubby doors are complete and all present – with the exception of the odd few small marks here and there, it presents very well.
UNDER THE BONNET
The oil and coolant are murky but not over-used and to the full mark, and the bay shows signs of care but not over-presentation. The battery located adjacent to the bulkhead looks fairly new, and the sills, drains and scuttle are all clear of debris. The engine is leak-free with just a slight covering of grease suggesting a thorough maintenance routine, but shows no sign of any major works. The cylinder head bolts are undamaged but originallooking, as are the manifold studs with just the top of the brand-new exhaust system showing.
THE CCW VIEW
If you want a cosseted, but very original car, then you’ve found it. However, periods of dry-storage and limited use have taken their toll on perishable rubbers – there are no leaks evident right now, but they will be soon if remedial action isn’t taken now. This is an elegant and generally good vehicle that’s in great but not perfect condition. Look away if you’re after performance; look closer for a very good value way into classic Mercedes ownership.