Mercedes-Benz 230TE Auto W124

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Launched in 1987 and remaining in production until 1995, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W124) is widely recognised as the last of the 'over-engineered' Mercedes models before cost-cutting began to erode the marque's once impregnable reputation for money-no-object design.

It was available in saloon, estate, coupe and convertible guises with a bewildering array of petrol and diesel engine options. Beautifully balanced and equipped with Mercedes' superlatively sure-footed multi-link rear suspension, all had nicely weighted power-assisted steering and excellent disc brakes. Very expensive when new, the handsome estate version, in particular, has long been a favourite with Britain’s middle classes, owners tending to hang onto them for years, rather like the family labrador.

This mid-range 230TE certainly proves the point, its last owner having kept it from 1992 until July of this year. Its comprehensive service history has 17 stamps in the service book (10 through Mercedes-Benz dealers) and confirms that it has covered just 117,000 miles from new, having been well cared-for throughout its 24 year life.

MOTd until August 2015, it retains both sets of keys, its original roof bars and looks very smart in bright red with charcoal upholstery. These beautifully built, comfortable machines are not only lovely to drive, but will cover enormous distances without fuss.