Sometimes when I've just washed it, I get a few looks. It's not that uncommon a car, but I think when the suns out and he's all clean, that chrome grille cowling just sparkles, the white paint looks brilliant (well, not up close ... ) and the palomino intererior looks very sharp, too. The 124 is such a classy design ... a lot of car manufacturers copied it but didn't really "get" it. And 123s and 126s, even if they are fairly common, are still a very unique-looking car. I also think that, as with all older cars IMO, one that is clean and well-kept REALLY stands out. This more true for you guys driving the 123s. My 124, even though I consider it classic, looks fairly modern ... in fact most people who dont know better mistake it for a mid-90s model.
One other thing I think makes our cars different is the double-take effect ... people hear "CLATTA CLATTA CLATTA" and they look, expecting to see some junky clunker, or at least a cute little diesel putter ... and instead it's a smart-looking BENZ giving out that sound. They don't expect it. A lot of these people don't even know that MB made diesels.
There are three kinds of people who check out my car, from what I can tell: 1) People who don't know jack about cars or MBs and just think "oooh Mercedes ... $$$" 2) people who don't know anything about cars or MBs and think "WHY is that girl's car so %^&$* loud?! and 3) awesome folks who appreciate the wonders of the MB world and look at fellow MB drivers with respect.
I myself always check out old MBs. The best is when I'm out running and I see a nice one drift by and I trail it with my gaze as it drives by, as though it's some sort of million-dollar vehicle. Now, when I am IN my Mercedes, i would imagine the driver of whatever MB I am staring at can understand why I take such an interest in their car. But when I'm out running, and my interest in MB is not apparant, these poor drivers must just think I'm a wacko. So if you notice any random runners staring down your 123, take no offense ... it's only admiration.
