Mercedes W123 generations

The predecessor of the modern E-Class, the Mercedes-Benz W123 was produced from 1975 to 1985 in sedan, coupe and 5-door estate bodies. It is still considered almost the most successful car in the history of Mercedes-Benz, largely because the engineers worked well on its safety. Compared to its predecessor W114/115, the car received a longer wheelbase and more space, an improved body with a reinfor... read allced interior, upgraded and reinforced roof pillars and the frame itself. The front and rear deformation zones were also elaborated, which resulted in more noticeable energy absorption and more predictable deformations with various combinations of impacts. The fuel tank was placed above the rear axle to reduce the risk of damage and fire in case of a rear impact. In 1980, the designers equipped the W123 with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), and two years later the car got airbags.