Lot 04: Mercedes-Benz 280CE

Introduced in 1975, Mercedes-Benz's W123 series cars perpetuated the marque's enviable reputation for engineering integrity. Well built with a sense of solidity missing from today's model range, the W123 cars featured all round independent coil sprung suspension, disc brakes and power steering. Devoid of exterior plastic trim and regarded by some as the last of the 'chrome era' Mercedes, W123s have begun to attract a cult following. Finished in Champagne Gold with Mushroom velour upholstery, this particular two-door pillarless coupe example is described by the vendor as being in "good" condition with regard to its electrical equipment, interior trim, chassis, bodywork, paintwork and wheels / tyres (while, he rates the 2.8 litre straight-six engine and automatic transmission as "excellent"). Passing from uncle to nephew but remaining in single family custodianship until October 2002 when it was bought by a gentleman from Derby, 'A92 NVH' entered the current ownership via our April 2005 Buxton auction. Believed but not warranted to have covered 133,000 miles from new, a series of accompanying MOT certificates dating back to February 1994 at 99,970 miles indicate that the 280CE to has travelled an average of just 2,000 - 3,000 miles per annum since then. Benefiting from a sunroof, power steering, ABS, central locking and electric windows, the extensive maintenance records on file apparently show the Mercedes to have last been serviced at 128,000. Though, we are further informed that: "the rear differential and drive shafts have recently been replaced / refurbished". Riding on steel wheels, this elegant yet practical four-seater coupe is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until April 2009.