After the “stroke eight” (W114-W115) model ended its successful career, a new star was born in Stuttgart: the 1975 Mercedes-Benz W123 model, as a model placed under the S-Class range, which was launched in 1972.
The W123 was one of the most reliable cars in the German car manufacturer. Its rattling inline-four diesel engines were built to last forever and some of them were still in use even in 2020 in some countries, used as cabs. The car took some parts from its predecessor such as the semi-trailing rear arm suspension. The model family ranged from the 2.0-liter 4-cylinder Diesel with 55 hp to the 2.8-liter 6-cylinder injection engine with 185 hp.

In the front, the various big round dual headlamps were a characteristic design of the new models. Next to the main headlamp, under a common lens, there was a smaller halogen fog lamp. Differing from that, the two top models of the series, Types 280 and 280 E, were provided with rectangular halogen wide-band headlights. Bigger bumpers were installed for the U.S. market. The straight lines of the vehicle were sweetened by rounded edges. To emphasize the luxury appearance, chromed mirrors and bumpers were installed.

Inside, the car featured cloth seats and four-speed manual transmission on the base trim level. Over time, it received a 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic transmission. Besides the sedan, coupe, and station-wagon, the car was also available with a long wheelbase, in the form of a limousine, for state-officials or limousine services.