Mercedes-Benz 300E-24 Saloon

Click Here for Full Screen Image - Click Here to Download Image

Launched in 1985 the W124 range is considered by many aficionados as the final 'hewn-from-granite' Mercedes-Benz before cost-cutting began to erode the marque’s hard won reputation for bullet-proof engineering.

Brimful of cutting edge technology, the W124 was lighter and sleeker than its predecessors with an aerodynamic body that included a plastic shrouded undercarriage to streamline airflow around the car reducing both fuel consumption and wind noise. Extensive computer modelling meant the car had advanced crash protection for its era with carefully designed crumple zones to absorb energy, while active safety measures included ABS brakes and a sophisticated multi-link independent rear suspension set up that gave exemplary road-holding.

A wide range of engines were available from a 2-litre straight-four to a 5-litre V8 all of which proved incredibly robust being capable of huge mileages with nothing more than routine servicing. Offering the best blend of performance and economy was the 3-litre DOHC 24-valve straight-six engine, introduced in 1990, which produced 230bhp and could launch the car to 60mph in just 7.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 149mph. These were mighty impressive figures for such a big saloon and ABS brakes and traction control were required to keep everything under control.

This particular 24-valve saloon was initially a demonstrator at Jacksons Garage of Guernsey before being sold to first owner Mrs Trent of St Peter, Jersey, in December 1990. It was to remain on this balmy island, with its salt-free roads and 40mph speed limit, until May 2013, being meticulously maintained throughout this time with 12 stamps in the service book up to 69,282 miles in June 2012 (an average service interval of only 5,800 miles).

Still with only 73,086 miles under its wheels, it remains in good order throughout and has recently had £1,420 spent on it at Mercedes specialist The SL Shop, which included new plugs, HT leads, rotor arm, distributor cap and a crankshaft pulse sensor. A very high spec model finished in classic Astral Silver, it comes with a sheet detailing all the extras which include Royal Blue perforated leather sports seats front and rear (electrically adjustable in the front); rear headrests; burr walnut interior trim; green tinted glass; cruise control; self-cleaning headlamps; electric sunroof and Sportline alloy wheels.

As you would expect from such a well-maintained, low mileage example, it is said to drive well with an MOT until 19th March 2015 (with no advisories recorded) and comes with all its original handbooks.

Built like the proverbial brick outhouse, these W124 models can clock up intergalactic mileages with ease and this pampered example will no doubt continue to give sterling service throughout the life of its new owner and beyond. A luxury high performance saloon from the glory days of Mercedes-Benz, it looks huge value at the modest guide price suggested.