[ayushagarwal26]

Last weekend, while spending some time at Mill Valley, I decided to go for a stroll around the beautiful downtown market and bayfront. However, I strayed from the market and walked around some houses, little realizing that an hour's walk would turn into a 80's-90's Mercedes enthusiast's paradise!

I realize that these cars are not technically even close to vintage or classic, but I consider them classics based on their timeless design, build and elegant appeal anyway!

It's surprising how many people in a 2-3 mile radius can be enthusiasts. I saw a lot of current Mercedes models as well, and a lot of post year 2000 cars, but I didn't click pictures as my emphasis was on the 80's and 90's. And all of this by chance while taking a stroll

I'll start with a 123, albeit in neglected state. In good shape overall, though:





Next comes an immaculate 123, down the same street. This guy had 3 of them(!) - 2 were covered though.



Now for my personal favorites. 124s!
This house had 2 124's - a pre 1993 sedan and a post 1993 wagon. A 320 and a 300, as far as I remember. Beautifully kept. I almost want to say as good as new.





He also had a w212 in his driveway, and a GL. To own that garage... sigh!

Next - another 124. May be the best one I've ever seen. Period. Those alloys are classic!



Time to move on from the E to the S!

A beautiful 126.



And a couple of 140's. It's my dream to own one someday, back in India. Here, they're not as rare (like in the middle east), and most look cared for.





Saving the best for last! Spotted this near Burlingame, merely a few minutes from my house. I also saw a spotless R129 SL500 coupe - will click a picture if I spot it again. Missed it.

However, here's to the old SL (I don't remember the chassis code):





Well, that's it for today. I'm sure I'm gonna come across many more fine examples - will keep posting!

[DicKy]

Looks like you double posted the pics, but mahn are those Mercs.
All my fav Mercs W126>W123>W140>W124 in that order.
Must be one hell of a Merc fans 'hood.

[infotech58]

There are a lot of pristine condition W124s that can be found in west coast. Here, in the eastern parts, these cars are relatively rare.
I almost traded my Xterra with a colleague's immaculate condition W124 E220 back in 2009 but he backed out at last minute. That colleague has moved to Arizona now and drives the same W124 and still has no intentions to part ways with the car.

[ayushagarwal26]

A bonus picture of my car back in Delhi, just as a comparison

[msaudf]

Originally Posted by ayushagarwal26

I'll start with a 123, albeit in neglected state. In good shape overall, though:

Wow! that must have been such an energetic and inspiring walk. you must have got back home with a BIG smile on your face seeing all these pristine pieces of automotive engineering all at once.

The first picture:
Isn't that a w116?, it looks very very similar to a w123 but is different in proportions. The main difference can be noted in the wiper system.

keep up the good work mate.

Cheers
Saud

[ayushagarwal26]

You're right - it is indeed a 116. I must have mistyped
Now I'm just embarassed... heh!

[kevinephraim]

Originally Posted by msaudf

Wow! that must have been such an energetic and inspiring walk. you must have got back home with a BIG smile on your face seeing all these pristine pieces of automotive engineering all at once.

The first picture:
Isn't that a w116?, it looks very very similar to a w123 but is different in proportions. The main difference can be noted in the wiper system.

keep up the good work mate.

Cheers
Saud

And also the double bumpers.