The Mercedes-Benz W123. Just the name evokes images of unparalleled quality, steadfast reliability, and understated elegance. This model isn’t just a car; it’s a symbol of an era when Mercedes-Benz engineering was synonymous with over-engineering, built to last not just years, but generations. Replacing the W114 in 1975, the W123, penned by Friedrich Geiger and Bruno Sacco, immediately captivated buyers with its fresh, modern design. Demand surged so dramatically that eager customers were willing to pay premiums just to jump the queue, a testament to its instant desirability.
Alt text: Front profile view of a silver Mercedes-Benz W123 estate wagon, showcasing its iconic design and classic Mercedes-Benz grille.
Mercedes-Benz’s unwavering commitment to quality, ironically, contributed to these delays. The W123’s popularity endured throughout its production run until 1986, with waiting lists persisting almost until the very end. While modern Mercedes-Benz vehicles boast cutting-edge technology, the W123’s premium price reflected an almost obsessive dedication to quality and refinement. These cars were meticulously assembled, incredibly robust, and ideally suited for a diverse clientele, from families and executives to even heads of state. Famously, the base models became the ubiquitous taxi in numerous countries, enduring even the harshest conditions. The W123 was so beloved by professional drivers that its successor, the W124, sparked protests from German taxi drivers upon its arrival in 1985!
More than just a taxi, the W123 is celebrated as one of the finest mass-produced automobiles ever created, with nearly 3 million units manufactured between 1976 and 1986. While the four-door sedan was the most common body style, Mercedes also offered a stylish coupe, a long-wheelbase limousine, and the highly practical estate version. Performance wasn’t the primary focus; the most potent factory engine was a 182 bhp Type M110 twin-cam inline-six petrol. Diesel options were also available, including the renowned 3-liter OM617 turbodiesel, praised for its efficiency, durability, and near-indestructibility – though certainly not designed for high-speed Autobahn duels with Porsches. This is where the legendary AMG stepped in.
Alt text: Side view of a silver Mercedes-Benz W123 wagon, emphasizing its spacious estate body and period-correct wheels.
Imagine AMG engineers, perhaps inspired by the American muscle car philosophy, turning their attention to the composed W123 and deciding to transplant a powerful V8 engine from the flagship S-Class into its mid-size frame. AMG recognized the untapped potential of the W123 chassis, and this exceptional 500 TE Wagon represents the pinnacle of their W123 modifications. This is an incredibly rare machine, one of only a very few W123 estates to receive the full AMG treatment. While AMG conversions varied in scope, they went far beyond simply engine swaps. The modifications were so comprehensive that AMG was authorized to assign their own unique ID numbers, a feature reportedly present on this particular example.
At the heart of this beast lies the Mercedes M117 V8 engine, replacing the original 2.8-liter six-cylinder. Records suggest AMG enhanced this V8 to a 5.2-liter specification (increased from the standard 5.0), producing a formidable 295 bhp as per period documentation. Visually, the car is enhanced with AMG’s signature body kit, blacked-out trim, iconic period-correct BBS split-rim wheels, and retains its original Astral Silver paint finish, complemented by a custom red interior.
Alt text: Detailed view of the Mercedes-Benz W123 AMG engine compartment, featuring the upgraded 5.2-liter V8 engine and performance components.
AMG’s holistic approach to tuning included upgraded suspension and larger wheels to effectively manage the V8’s increased power. While specific documentation is not available with this car, it reportedly features what has been claimed as an AMG ID plate and serial number, adding weight to the possibility that this is a genuine Affalterbach-built example, although some vehicles were also assembled by AMG distributors in the USA. Close inspection of the firewall reveals that the original Mercedes-Benz serial number (123.093.12.008986) has been struck out and replaced with a punched replacement number adjacent to it. Enthusiasts who have encountered this 500 TE over the years recall that its previous owner, Mr. Taylor, held it in high regard and used it as his personal “shop car” for his business, AMG West. Currently showing 82,894 KM at the time of cataloging, it has been in storage since Mr. Taylor’s passing. It has not been run while under current care and will require recommissioning before returning to the road.
Mercedes-Benz estates have long enjoyed a dedicated following, and collectors have increasingly recognized their value as exceptional examples become harder to find. This remarkable and exceedingly rare 500TE AMG is undoubtedly one of the most desirable long-roof Mercedes-Benz models available. Imagine the presence it would command at your local car show – or the thrill of leaving soccer practice accompanied by the deep rumble of its V8 engine and a cloud of tire smoke. This Mercedes Benz W123 For Sale is not just a car; it’s a piece of automotive history waiting to be revived.
