Used Mercedes TE Series

The Mercedes TE Series was a line of automobiles based on Mercedes Benz’s W123 platform, released between 1976 and 1985. The TE series referred to estate or station wagon models (designated by the T), that also featured fuel injection (or Einspritzung, designated by the E). The Mercedes Benz W123 cars were, overall, the most successful models in Mercedes Benz’s history, garnering sales of over two and a half million units. They replaced the earlier W114/W115, even surpassing their success. The W123 lineup featured updated styling, although links to their predecessors were maintained. The newer line was also larger in terms of exterior dimensions and wheelbase. Earlier W115 engines were carried over to the W123 series, with the only new engine being the 2525 cc inline-six, Type M123. Over the nearly decade-long production run of the W123, engines ranged from the initial 2.0L M115 I4 to the 3.0L OM617 I5 Diesel, with power outputs ranging from 93 hp to 123 hp. A coupe version with a shorter wheelbase than that of the saloon W123s was introduced in 1976, while the used Mercedes TE Series, which was comprised of estates, was introduced in 1977. The T stood for “Touring and Transport”. Thus, buyers had a lot of freedom in choosing the body type they wanted, as well as the engine they wanted. The Mercedes TE models were intended to be the more practical members of the W123 series, featuring roomy interiors and increased storage space. This is due, of course, to the extended roofline of these estate models, as compared to the normal sedans. The roofline of the TE models was extended toward the rear, over a cargo area behind the seats. These TE models benefited from the innovations that the W123 line would end up introducing. One of these is the ABS or antilock brake system, which became an option starting April 1980. Another is a retractable steering column and driver-side airbag, which became an option from 1982 onward. Other options included a choice between MB-Tex (Mercedes Benz Texturized Punctured Vinyl), velour, and leather upholstery, wood trim in the interior, sunroof, power windows, and so on. For the TE station wagons, extra rear-facing seats were also an option. The Mercedes TE Series belonged to the excellent Mercedes W123 range, which were among the best cars of their time. Mercedes Benz balanced performance, build quality, and cost to produce one of the best-selling and most successful automobile ranges of all time.