1984 Mercedes-Benz 280 CE (C123) Auto

With its powerful, fuel-injected, twin-cam, 185bhp, 2.8-litre six-cylinder (M110/988), the 280CE Coupé was the flagship of the W123 range. Finished in gleaming Signal Red, this elegant example spent its early days with its first owner in the Isle of Man as part of his collection before moving to Dublin for the majority of its life with its second owner. In 2021, it was purchased by its third owner who brought it back to the UK where the decision was taken to refresh the lower half of the bodywork. The panels were taken back to bare metal and fresh metal let in to the arches front and rear before being carefully prepared and refinished in its original Signal Red. This work was carried out to a very high standard, so much so, that even a seasoned professional struggled to see where the new paint met the old. The roof, bonnet and boot lid, I feel, are original from new.

The car’s History File is remarkable and contains a fully stamped Service Book, dating back from day one to 2022, and the traditional, red leather, Dealer Book Pack is in immaculate condition displaying all the relevant manuals and instructions. The Service History folder is over six inches thick and appears impressively comprehensive, covering all aspects of work carried out over the years from servicing

to head gasket replacement in 2022. This is a very interesting read including details of the owner’s journeys and illustrates the level of care that has been lavished on this smart 1980s Mercedes. Three spare keys, including the valet key, are present further confirming the owner’s attention to detail and offering peace of mind to its next lucky owner.

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The condition of this 280CE is remarkable having benefited from many years of care and investment. Considering it has covered some 125,000 miles, the interior is virtually unmarked with the driver’s and passenger seats appearing hardly sat in with no discernible wear. The woodwork retains a decent shine with not one single crack to the dashboard (rare in a 123-Series), and the carpets have had over-mats over, over-mats so the original carpets are like new. Rear seatbelts are fitted with a third single belt for an extra person. The engine bay displays honesty and originality with new parts fitted here and there and it has just had fresh fluids including engine oil and filters, coolant and brake fluid. For a 40-plus years old car, the underside is amazing with no welding plates to floor or sill areas and wearing its original underseal. To protect the originality, it’s just had a full Waxoyl program and the front springs have been replaced with genuine Mercedes parts to ensure the correct ride height. The paintwork has recently been enhanced by a full rectification program including a two-stage machine polish and high-grade wax finish.

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The overall condition and the way this 280CE looks, drives and feels combined with a comprehensive history is remarkable and hard to find in these sought-after early eighties coupés. A test drive, once all the work was completed, reinforced just how good these C123 models are to drive. They are the perfect classic ‘daily driver’, reliable enough to be used in modern traffic but stylish enough for weekend fun. Come and see our 280CE and I’m sure you will agree.

The Showroom is always open for viewings ‘By Appointment’ only.