This morning I was perusing the FB group Finding Future Classic Cars and ran across this survivor, a ’75 230 sedan. This was the car all the Ford Granada ads alluded to, when they claimed (likely after several gin and tonics or martinis at the Grosse Pointe Inn) that the new formal-lined Ford compact looked just like a Mercedes.
It didn’t really, no more than a 230 like this looked just like a Volvo 244DL. Sure there were some similarities, but nothing to really fool people who were interested in cars. But I digress. I always had a soft spot for these, because as a kid one of my favorite Corgi Toys was a 240D of this same generation, silver with tan interior and opening doors and trunk.
It was definitely a favorite, because it got pretty weathered in short order. But it survived, and I still have it in a box somewhere. I got a couple mint condition versions on ebay as well, back in the late ’90s. Anyway, onto our featured car.
As the seller related: “For sale is my 1975 Mercedes 230 w115 with 113,xxx miles. The only item which is not original is the stereo. The engine has been rebuilt by MB in Germany and does not leak any fluids.”
“It starts the first turn of the key, every time. The battery is brand new. The driving experience is smooth and everything is tight.”
“This vehicle just received a two day detail. Every part of the exterior has been compounded, waxed, buffed and protected. The paint is incredible! The interior is in excellent condition with no rips or tears on the seats or dashboard.”
“The only item on the interior needing attention is the headliner. It is showing it’s age along the rear window. This vehicle has mild rusting low on the rocker panels.”
“The value has been appraised by my insurance company at $9k, so I am firm on the price at this time. Please feel free to message me for more pictures and details.”
Anyway, the ask is $4650. A little more rust than I’d like, but it appears to be all there and not messed with or modified. The link is right here if someone wants to inquire further.
One thing’s for sure, you don’t see too many of these any more, though I see similar vintage R107 350SLs on a regular basis at local car shows.