In 1991 Mercedes-Benz was in danger of becoming a niche player in the Australian market. While the brand had 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 $63,200 plus on-road costs for the W201 190E 1.8. The medium-sized luxury sedan segment was growing, largely driven by BMW's all-new E36 3-Series which had an entry price-point of $44,300 plus on-road costs for the popular 318i auto. The Federal Government's depreciation limit was set at $45,462, which meant that a new car costing over this price could not be fully depreciated. It was a boom-time for BMW, and Mercedes-Benz had a real problem on its hands. Its response, however, turned the market on its head. In October 1991 it sent shockwaves throughout the local industry when it released the 180E Limited Edition, actually a 190E 1.8 with reduced equipment levels and a new badge so as not to alienate loyal customers who had paid many thousands more for the 190E. Mercedes was able to launch the car at $45,450 for the automatic...just $12 under the depreciation limit, and the result was instant success. The 180E is therefore an 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 which remains the top-seller in its segment to this day...and now about to move into its fifth generation, the W206.
We are therefore very proud to be able to offer this sparkling example of the game-changing 180E. Delivered new by Mercedes-Benz of Sydney in early April 1992, this Arctic White 1992-built and complied car with Orion grey cloth trim has covered just 112,048km from new. It comes complete with all its original factory literature, three keys, its original-issue NSW number plates and a full log book service history. The vehicle remained with the original owner right up to 2020, and it has been regularly and carefully serviced throughout its life. The history indicates servicing exclusively by the selling dealer for a number of years, and thereafter by reputable Mercedes-Benz specialists. Recent work includes a new water pump and thermostat, carried out in October of this year. It presents in first-class condition inside and out, with excellent paint and an interior free from the ravages of the sun. The Bruno Sacco-designed W201 has always been regarded as an outstanding driver's car, with a taut, sporty chassis and enjoyable driver feedback thanks to the then-revolutionary new multi-link rear suspension. This car still impresses with that trademark crispness, and instantly puts a smile on the face of any Mercedes-Benz enthusiast. The standard equipment list was not lengthy by today's standards, but it includes air-conditioning, a locally-fitted Eurovox radio/cassette, central locking and a small panel of Zebrano timber veneer around the gearshift to retain a sense of Mercedes elegance and class. Unusually for a W201 of this age, the Zebrano panel in this car is completely free of the cracks and fading which afflict the majority of cars on offer. We would strongly recommend that anyone seeking a quality W201 should make an appointment with us to view this excellent example, as it is set to become a collectible modern classic without any doubt.
We are a boutique dealership located in a warehouse just 15 minutes from the Sydney CBD and 15 minutes from the airport. We pride ourselves on the quality of our cars and specialise in Mercedes-Benz. Our stock is hand-picked and each car is meticulously checked prior to being offered for sale by a specialist third-party technician. We are MTA members and agents for NSW Roads and Maritime Services, enabling us to transfer registrations and perform other transactions such as number plate transfer from our office. A range of other services is also offered including the transport of cars to any state or overseas, and competitive financing rates for all cars including older ones. Our showroom is indoors and off-street parking is available for our customers inside. We are Mercedes-Benz Club members and specialise in the brand, and aim to provide our customers with a high level of personalised service befitting of the unique cars that we offer.
