1996 Mercedes-Benz E280 Auto Estate (W124)

Highlights

Low mileage
Original example
Impressive history file
Handsome condition throughout

The Appeal

Perhaps one of the best practical modern classics available to buy from the German marque. Bank-vault build quality, reliability and more space than you can shake a stick at - so why wouldn’t you? The 124 generation of Mercedes embodied everything that a medium-sized car should. With a production span of twelve years in multiple body styles, it’s easy to see why every variant of these handsome tanks have their own army of fans today.

Unlike its predecessor, the W123, where the estate version was a late addition and compromised, the W124’s load-lugging version was developed in parallel with the saloon. For many, the W124 estate (or S124 as it’s known by enthusiasts) is probably one of the most desirable versions of all the company's mid-liners.

This example has been lovingly cared for over the last year by a Mercedes enthusiast, using it sparingly as a practical driver. According to the owner, the car has been an absolute pleasure to care for, but feels the time is right to move on and let this lovely example be passed on to someone who will cherish it even more.

The History and Paperwork

UK specification car
V5 present and correct
Originally registered on the 27th of March 1996
Matching numbers example
Owners manual present
Mercedes maintenance booklet present
Most recent MOT pass on the 12th of December 2023 does present some advisories
MOT history shows a strong number of passes with only two failures since 2006
Plenty of old MOT certificates present in the paperwork folder
Plethora of invoices for work completed over the years over multiple owners

The Condition

Lovely original condition
Finished in Azurite Blue Metallic paintwork which remains remarkably well preserved with only some small hints of age, a small scratch on the passenger side rear door and a small scuff on the driver side front bumper is all we can find
All four wheels had been diamond cut and as a result have some usual lacquer issues, but the wheels themselves look undamaged
Brightwork grille looks fantastic with no degradation or blemishes
Panel gaps all appear to be of factory fitment with no noticeable dents or dings throughout
Arches all appear to be free from corrosion, the usual killer for these models!
Optional electric sliding roof in functional condition and watertight
Auto antenna is reported to no longer work
Interior remains exceptionally well presented in its original cloth trim
Stitching and piping all intact with minimal signs of use
Original Mercedes-Benz carpets present and in great shape
Dashboard free from cracks and all of the switchgear remains functional and easy to read
Wooden veneer trim in the centre console shows the usual cracks around the switchgear
Door cards are all wonderfully presented
Boot area is nicely kept with undamaged carpets
Double roller blind between passenger and luggage compartment
Foldaway seats in the boot remain in lovely condition

The Mechanics

Recent restorative works totalling circa. £9K include a newly-fitted engine, a new set of tyres, exhaust repair work, new brake discs, brake pads and brake callipers, strut top mounting and cylinder head gasket
4-speed automatic transmission in great mechanical health, shifting smoothly and effortlessly between gears in all driving conditions
Rear-wheel drive configuration
Most recent MOT carried out in December of 2023 stating a pass
Steering reportedly remains easy to manipulate as you would expect
Suspension remains comfortable and supple with no unwelcome noises over uneven road surfaces
Brakes remain strong and predictable with a nice linear pedal feel

BEFORE YOU BUY

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