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Mercedes-Benz W123 W123 (E-Class Predecessor)

1976–1985 · W123 · sedan

The W123 is the predecessor to the modern E-Class and one of the most durable cars Mercedes-Benz ever built. US sales ran from 1977 through 1985 in sedan, coupe (C123) and wagon (S123) bodies. The OM617 five-cylinder diesel, naturally aspirated and turbocharged, is the headline drivetrain for the platform's reputation as a million-mile car.

Watch out: Rust on jacking points, rear wheel arches, trunk floor and rocker panels is the dominant W123 issue today. Owner reports of vacuum-line brittleness (door locks, climate control, transmission shift quality on diesels), aging cooling-system components and worn fuel-system rubber are routine given the age.