The Mercedes 123, introduced in 1976, was a game-changing car known for its reliability, durability, and safety features. After 8 years of development and testing, the car was launched with a range of engines, including gasoline and diesel options. It was a huge success, with over 2.7 million units sold worldwide, and became the best-selling Mercedes model of its time.
The car's endurance and reliability were legendary, with some owners clocking over 1 million kilometers without major issues. The Mercedes 123 was also popular among taxi drivers, police, and firefighters, and was even used in the 1980 Olympics.
Tuning companies like Brabus and Lorinser modified the car, increasing its power and performance. The Mercedes 123 also participated in the 1977 London-Sydney rally, where two of its cars finished in the top spots.
Today, the Mercedes 123 is a collector's item, with some models selling for thousands of dollars. The car's legacy continues to inspire car enthusiasts, and its reputation as a reliable and durable vehicle remains unmatched.
1. The Mercedes 123 was presented to the world in 1976.
2. 8 years were spent developing and testing the new model.
3. The car underwent testing in various parts of the planet on highways, off-road, in sand and snow at extreme temperatures.
4. Considerable emphasis was placed on the endurance of the new car.
5. The Mercedes 123 was designed with independent suspension on all wheels, disc brakes, and an anti-roll bar.
6. A large list of engines was available, both gasoline and diesel.
7. Serious attention was paid to safety, including seat belts and body deformations.
8. The Mercedes 123 was one of the first cars to have seat belts installed.
9. The car was initially available as a sedan, with a coupe and station wagon versions released later.
10. The Mercedes 123 became a bestseller, with buyers having to wait up to a year to purchase a new car.
11. Cunning businessmen took advantage of this, reselling new cars for several thousand marks more expensive.
12. The Mercedes 123 was popular among taxi companies, hotels, airports, and police departments.
13. The car was also used by the Soviet Union for the 1980 Olympics.
14. The most powerful version of the Mercedes 123 had a 2.8-liter engine and 185 horsepower.
15. The car could accelerate to 100 km/h in 9.7 seconds.
16. Some owners modified their Mercedes 123 with tuning projects, including a five-liter V8 engine.
17. One owner, Paul Harman, reported driving his diesel Mercedes 123 for over 1 million miles.
18. The car's endurance was attributed to regular maintenance and oil changes every 5,000 kilometers.
19. Mercedes had a special program called the "High Mileage Award" for owners who reached significant mileage milestones.
20. The Mercedes 123 was used in a rally from London to Sydney in 1977, covering over 30,000 kilometers.
21. The car was modified with a safety cage, additional fuel tank, and raised suspension for the rally.
22. Two Mercedes 123 cars completed the rally, coming in first and second place.
23. The winning cars are now on display at the Mercedes Museum.
24. Over 2.7 million Mercedes 123 cars were sold worldwide, making it the most popular car in the brand's history.