Mercedes-Benz E-Class IV (W123) photos

The Mercedes-Benz W123 series debuted in January 1976 (with early production starting in late 1975) and became the most commercially successful executive model line in the company's history. Sharing styling language with the S-Class W116, the W123 featured horizontal headlamp units and dirt-resistant ribbed taillights. The lineup offered unmatched variety, comprising a four-door sedan (W123), a stylish coupe (C123), and Mercedes-Benz's first official factory-built five-door station wagon, the T-Modell (S123), equipped with standard self-leveling hydropneumatic rear suspension.

Powertrains included four- and six-cylinder gasoline engines (200, 230 E, 250, 280 E) alongside legendary OM615, OM616, and OM617 atmospheric and turbocharged diesels (including the flagship 300 TD Turbodiesel). The W123 introduced safety milestones to the segment, offering optional Bosch ABS from 1980 and a driver airbag from 1982. Total production reached an astounding 2.69 million vehicles over its ten-year lifecycle, solidifying its international reputation for engineering longevity.