1993 Mercedes Benz 180E

Mercedes-Benz cars in Australia are perceived as being way out of reach of mere mortals with a mortgage and three kids to put through school.

In 1991, the company was forced to respond to strong marketing pressures from BMW, with its cheaper entry-level 318i, and Audi, with its 80 Series. While the brand maintained a powerful prestige aura, primarily due to its S-Class models, its product range was relatively narrow, and its entry price point for an automatic car was high.

Rather than sit on their “MB Tex,” Mercedes-Benz turned the market on its head with a bold move that sent shockwaves through the car industry. The result was the introduction of a unique and very affordable Mercedes model.

The 180E Limited Edition four-door sedan was priced to come in under the luxury tax threshold, which at the time was set around $45,000. This meant not only was it more attainable, but it could also be fully depreciated.

The bold move came from some rather clever thinking. The 180E Limited Edition was actually a 190E with reduced equipment levels and a new badge, ensuring it did not alienate loyal customers who had paid much more for their 190E. While the Limited Edition lost features like tinted glass, ABS brakes, electric windows, and other small trim items, it was an instant success, challenging BMW for the top spot—and history was made.

The 180E is, therefore, a historically important car for the brand in Australia, as it brought a whole new generation of buyers into the fold, who could only have dreamed of Mercedes ownership previously. It also effectively paved the way for the very popular C-Class, which followed in 1994 and remains the top-seller in its segment to this day, now about to move into its fifth generation, the W206.

Offered here is what must be one of Australia’s best-kept Mercedes-Benz 180Es. Delivered new by Mercedes-Benz Sydney in 1994, this Polar White & Grey Two-Tone exterior with Black MB Classic Fabric interior is a stunning example. It has had just two local owners, with the latter owning it for the majority of its life and using it sparingly as her local grocery getter. Traveling under 1,000 km a year since its delivery in 1994, with consistent maintenance carried out, it truly is a time warp.

Step inside this amazingly well-presented classic, and you will be transported back to the 90s. The interior design is unique, with a simple yet ergonomically efficient dash layout. The ignition key is on the dash to the left of the steering column, and the indicator stalk, unlike many European cars, is on the right side.

Behind the wheel, as with all Mercedes-Benz models, the ride and handling are outstanding. Ample power and cruising comfort, combined with a smooth 4-speed automatic transmission, provide both a comfortable and sporty driving experience.

Complete with its toolkit and all original bookwork, including the dealer-fitted navigation system (Sydway Street Directory Book), it has enjoyed a full service history. The car has received a sympathetic overhaul in preparation for sale. This amazing example is ready to be enjoyed either as a classic on historic registration for weekend runs or as a daily driver.

The Bruno Sacco-designed W201 has always been regarded as an outstanding driver's car, with a taut, sporty chassis and enjoyable driver feedback through its precise power steering. This car still impresses with that trademark crispness and instantly puts a smile on the face of any Mercedes-Benz enthusiast. Mercedes-Benz cars are built to a standard of quality and durability envied by other makers. Don’t miss this opportunity to become part of the cool Mercedes set with your own piece of Australian Benz history.