W123, The Most Successful Mercedes-Benz Model Series To Date, Turns 50 Years

W123, E-Class predecessor and the most successful Mercedes-Benz model series to date, turns 50 years. 

Lineup includes 4-door saloon (W123), the 2-door Coupé (C123), 5-door T-Model (S 123) and the long-wheelbase 4-door limousine (V123). 

During its production years from 1976 to 1986, the W123 borrowed design and technology cues from the S-Class (W 116) of that time. 

Due to its reputation of durability and reliability, the rugged Mercedes-Benz 240D was used as taxicabs in Germany. 

By 1986, when the production run ended, a total of 2.7 million W123 have been produced, of which 2,375,440 were saloons.

The Mercedes-Benz model series 123 (predecessor to the E-Class) turns 50 this year since the executive car made its world premiere at the Paul Ricard Circuit in Southern France, replacing the W114/W115 series.

About a year after the premiere of the 4-door saloon (W123), the 2-door Coupé (C123) and the 5-door T-Model (S 123) joined the lineup in 1977, followed by the long-wheelbase 4-door limousine (V123) – extended by 63 centimeters.

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During its production years from 1976 to 1986, the 123 model series borrowed design and technology cues from the S-Class (W 116) of that time, including the ABS anti-lock braking system and the driver airbag from 1982 on.

Due to its reputation of durability and reliability, the diesel-powered Mercedes-Benz W123 (240 D) was used as taxicabs in Germany – thanks to its ability to reach 500,000 or more kilometers (approx. 310,000+ miles) with only minor mechanical issues.

By 1986, when the production run ended, a total of almost 2.7 million vehicles have been produced – making the predecessor of the E-Class the most successful Mercedes-Benz model series to date.

Of the total produced, 2.3 million (2,375,440) units are saloons (sedans). The most produced 123 model was the 240 D sedan with 448,986 vehicles while the rarest was the 280 C coupé with 3,704 units.

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