1997 Mercedes-Benz A124 Cabriolet Sportline (E220)

Launched in 1985 as a replacement for the successful and long-running W123 series, the mid-size Mercedes-Benz W124 range built on its predecessor's reputation for thorough design and meticulous construction, whilst adding a welcome dash of driver appeal to the recipe. The model's typically sophisticated design of multi-link rear suspension resulted in an excellent handling/ride compromise, whilst the drag coefficient of 0.28 was one of the lowest of any car on sale at the time. It also featured advanced technology including the single windscreen wiper with eccentric pivot, and its exhaust oxygen sensor. The line-up of petrol engines ranged in size from 2.0 to 5.0-litres and diesel ones from 2.0 to 3.0-litres. The two-door, four-seat Cabriolet was the final addition to the range, being offered with 3.2-litre (E320) six-cylinder engine from 1991 and a 2.2-litre(E220) version was added to the mix two years later. The E220's 16-valve, four-cylinder engine produced some 148bhp and 155lbft of torque - sufficient to power the elegant Cabrioletto 62mph in around 10.6seconds and on to a top speed of 128mph.

I am delighted to be able to offer for sale this A124 E220 Cabriolet Sportline which is undoubtedly one of the nicest examples currently on the market. Beautifully presented in Azurite Blue Metallic over Mushroom Cream leather it’s very well optioned (see above) but, additionally, it was ordered from new with the desirable ‘Sportline’ package. This package includes low profile tyres, 7Jx15 alloys, lower, firmer suspension, more direct steering, individual sports seats, a smaller (390mm) steering wheel, a Nappa leather gear selector gaiter, and external badging.

I have sold this car previously to a UK collector who based it in Anglesey and consequently it was little used but it has now made its way down to Worcestershire where I have been able to maintain it and look after it for the current owner.

The W220 Cabriolet is a very versatile model. A genuine four-seater, it makes an excellent daily driver happy to glide along with its four-speed automatic gearbox with ease, and completely comfortable at motorway cruising speeds with the 2.2-litre four-cylinder proving remarkably economical. The heated seats and three-layer soft-top provide a cosy environment on chilly days but, when the sun comes out, a flick of a switch neatly folds and stows the soft top and a rather glamorous Cabriolet emerges. They can climb to huge mileages when correctly serviced and, judging by the well-stamped service history and sheaf of service invoices in this car’s history file, it’s obviously been looked after. In early 2024, it was treated to fresh fluids all round with the service record stamped appropriately to maintain continuity of history. The original Book Pack and spare keys are present.

If you are in the market for a classic Mercedes convertible and you would like four seats, then this beautiful 220 Cabriolet deserves your consideration. Good examples are becoming increasingly difficult to find and this low-mileage Sportline, in a great colour with a full specification and comprehensive history, surely ticks all the boxes.

Come along for test drive at Bruce Greetham - Classic Benz and you will not be disappointed.