Basic information and history

The 1985 Mercedes-Benz 200 Automatic is the last generation of the legendary W123 series, known for its robustness, comfort and uncompromising build quality. 1985 was the year the end of production was near, and original cars from this era are considered by many to be the pinnacle of classic Mercedes design and engineering.

This example has been in the same family's possession since June 6, 1985, when it was purchased new by the seller's mother, as a pensioner. During the first few years, the car was driven only 7,000 kilometers a year on summer trips to the summer house on Öland and back to Uppland where it was stored for the winter. During the late eighties, the car was used more frequently, and when the seller officially took over ownership in 1999, it was used, among other things, for commuting to work and then as a family car. From 2007 to 2016, it was driven sparingly, and in recent times it has mainly been used as a hobby car and second car. In total, the car has traveled 242,261 kilometers (odometer reading can be guaranteed). The car has never been idle for long periods and has had ongoing care and maintenance.

In the fall of 2017, the car visited its home country of Germany and showed what it could do on the Autobahn.

According to Swedish importer Philipsons' 1985 advertisement, this was the last chance to buy a Mercedes for under 100,000 SEK, but the first owner opted for an automatic transmission so the price was slightly higher. The car comes with a preserved Mercedes W123 brochure from the time of purchase.

Equipment and options

• Automatic transmission
• Wooden panels on the dashboard
• Blue-green tinted windshield at the top
• Central locking
• Driver airbag and seat belt pretensioner
• Electrically operated right exterior mirror

No modifications beyond routine maintenance and repairs. Several body renovations have been carried out, see separate section on condition.

Condition

Body and exterior condition: The paint is mostly original and free of rust spots and large scratches. The chrome is generally good but the driver's door handle shows bubbles. Under the side trim, previous surface rust has been sanded, phosphated and repainted with 2K spray, which on closer inspection can be seen through some unevenness. Some surface rust at the rear window attachment has been sealed (see photo documentation). Polishing and sealing would not hurt, the perfectionist repaints the entire car.

Left front fender has been replaced – the original fender with rust damage and the Mercedes NOS repair plate remains. Left rear door has been replaced due to an incident with a two-post lift. Left front fender molding has been replaced due to marginal shunting damage – the fender also had a dent and you can feel a small remaining unevenness. The reinforcement plate on the "top" near the right front shock absorber has been replaced due to rust damage (caused by poor workmanship from the factory). Right front beam (down in the engine compartment) has had rust damage that has now been repaired. Three small holes in the rear part of the floor have been repaired with new sheet metal. The rear fender edges have been partially repaired with new sheet metal. Bottom plate in the left recess of the trunk repaired with new sheet metal. See pictures!

Glass and lights: All windows are original and intact without cracks, the front window has only minor stone chips. Headlight wipers have been dismantled.

Interior/interior condition: The interior is in very good condition, the blue upholstery is in near new condition after cleaning. The headliner is taut, without stains or sagging, and all controls and buttons are in excellent condition. However, the radio is not fully assembled, and the reception is weak (probably an antenna problem). The lamp for lighting the gear selector is broken and the electrically operated right exterior mirror is choppy.

Tires and rims: Kuhmo summer tires in size 175/R14 from 2017 are mounted, with 4 mm tread depth in the middle of the tread. Tire wear is uneven but the front and rear wheel pairs have been swapped for longer life.

Mechanics and function: The engine starts and runs well all year round but has a slightly high idle. Latest inspection values for exhaust gases are approved. Brakes passed the latest inspection, but the braking effect on the right rear is slightly weaker. Gearbox and driveline work well, with fresh gearbox oil, but a slight whining sound can be heard at the rear when driving on the motorway. The steering has a certain looseness, which may indicate a worn steering gear. The central locking is sticking and needs to be checked. The air fan for exhaust gas purification has been dismantled.

Service history

The service book is filled out to 80,000 km. After that, all oil changes, filter changes and other maintenance have been done by the owner himself approximately every 1,000 km. From 190,000 km onwards, the owner has made notes about service in the booklet. The last major service was carried out in May-June 2022 at 224,395 km, when all fully synthetic oils in the engine, gearbox and rear axle were changed. The engine oil and filter are changed before the sale. Almost all inspection reports from 1985 onwards are still available, as well as service reports up to 1994; after that, there are a selection of receipts and notes. A new oil and filter change has just been carried out by the owner.

Summary

This Mercedes-Benz 200 Automatic, sold in Sweden and with a documented ownership and service history, represents a rare buying opportunity. Original feel, genuine used condition and ongoing renovations make this example a solid classic ready for new miles. Known history from day one and responsible care throughout ownership guarantee continued operation with classic Mercedes character. For those looking for a usable and charming W123 in really well-maintained condition with intact patina, this is an excellent choice.