1982 Mercedes-Benz W123 230CE review from UK and Ireland
"An affordable beauty"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Kick-down switch needed replacing.
Fuses kept blowing (linked to kick-down switch).
Dashboard lights needed replacing.
Ongoing oil leak below rocker cover.
Rad needed new core.
Fuel leak - pipe from tank to pump corroded.
General comments?
I brought this car from England to Ireland as I wanted one for years. The shape is beautiful, and the pillarless windows are a bonus. Also love the tan upholstery. It needed some work to pass the NCT (=MOT), but nothing serious.
Good acceleration, but sorely let down by only having a 4-speed auto box. Thus engine noise is loud at high speed. Hate the wiper switch - needs funny hand acrobatics.
An affordable classic, parts readily available and plenty of expertise around because of the ubiquitous saloon.
14" alloy wheels let the styling down slightly, but no other alloys will look good on it.
The suspension isn't up to Irish roads, but I can't afford a Hummer.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.3 petrol Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 2/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 4/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 147000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 168000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Sierra |
| Date of Entry | 30th October, 2002 |