Mood and style
Practical
The Mercedes-Benz W123 is a spacious classic saloon with four doors. Here you can view the W123 available for wedding car hire, for a stylish and relaxed ride. Read more
Mood and style
Practical
The W123 was Mercedes-Benz's mid-range model from the second half of the 1970s and the first half of the 1980s. It was built in large numbers and spent years working as a taxi in many European cities. It still has that reputation for being indestructible: a well-maintained W123 will often keep going for many more years.
As a wedding car it has an understated charm. Rectangular headlights, the large chrome grille with the star on the bonnet and plenty of chrome on the bumpers give it a classic, well-groomed look. It is not as eye-catching as a convertible or a big American cruiser, but it is recognisable and timeless. For couples who prefer something elegant and calm, that is exactly right.
The W123 was supplied with petrol and diesel engines. A diesel such as the 240D is not fast, but on a wedding day it does not need to be. The characteristic clatter of the diesel when starting up is part of the car. On a quiet route through a village or along country lanes, the W123 feels right at home.
The biggest advantage of this Mercedes is its practical layout. With four doors, getting in the back is just as easy as getting in the front. The doors open wide and the seat is at a normal height, so you can sit down in a full skirt without climbing in or bending too far. A long train fits comfortably in the rear footwell.
The back seat is wide enough for the bride and groom, even with a dress that needs a bit of space. In the front there is room for a witness or the photographer. That makes the W123 better suited to a full day of driving than a small two-seater.
Do not expect modern air conditioning or a silent cabin. The suspension is remarkably comfortable, though, and the seats are generous. On a warm day you can open the windows, but make sure your hairstyle is well secured.
Ask whether the car is a manual or an automatic, whether there are seat belts in the back and how it is supplied if it rains. With a W123 of this age, differences between individual cars are normal: one may have a sunroof or cloth upholstery, another leather. Photos of the interior help you see whether it suits your colours.
This Mercedes suits a wedding in a village, at a farm venue, on an estate or at a town hall in an old town. It is also a natural choice for a 1970s or 1980s retro theme. White ribbons in a V across the bonnet and a small flower arrangement on the grille suit it well and are easy to attach.
The W123 is one of the roomiest and most family-friendly classic Mercedes-Benz wedding cars. If you would like to compare it with another solid saloon from the same era, take a look at the Volvo Amazon, or view all classic wedding cars.