Once in a great while, a truly irreplaceable automobile emerges.

Such is the case with the Mercedes-Benz presented here.

The W123 series is among the most successful product lines in the company’s history and thousands are still in service nearly 50 years after their debut.

This remarkable 280 TE was purchased new via factory delivery in 1979, and parked in its owner’s garage in the Italian village of Avellino.

In 1980, an earthquake and landslide entombed the car in the garage, where it remained untouched, undamaged, and unregistered until 2018.


This well-optioned Wagon is finished in Nickel Green (DB 870) – which was discontinued after 1979 – with a Moss Green and Blue-Green cloth interior.

It is equipped with the model’s highestspecification gasoline-powered engine, airconditioning, rear-facing occasional seat, and Zebrano wood.

Easily mistaken for a restored car, the 280 TE is essentially entirely original and has been maintained by the renowned Scott Grundfor Company, whic...