Dependilng on your perspective the 124 is either a 1 1/8 scale verison of the 201 or the 201 is a 7/8 scale version of the 124. I prefer the former analogy, since the 201 preceded the 124.

Both models use many of the same parts and systems, and I don't think there was a signficant difference in design or build quality. Most of the US model 124s have more base equipment, and they were also signficantly more expensive, which probably translated to higher profit margin.

In my own case I prefer the smaller size of the 201. Both the 201 and 124 have about the same SAE front seat room, but the 124 has a larger back seat and truck, neither of which were important to me. Both also have similar driving qualities, which are very much like the S-class. It always amazed me that the 201 fells like a big Mercedes cruising down the interstate, but has the nimbleness and responsiveness that one would expect from a smaller car when the going gets twisty.

My former '84 190E 2.3 actually handled better than the 2.6 because the 2.3 is better balanced - in fact, once I installed decent tires the 2.3 probaby had the best ride/handling tradeoff of any car I've ever owned - but the additional power and silky smooth operation of the inline six is worth the trade. I only wish they had installed the 3.0 in the 190 with closer spaced gearing, but that car would have blown the 16V into the weeds, which would not have been a good marketing plan.

This appears to be a very nice car. I noticed that the firewall insulation is disintegrating. I replaced mine several years ago, and the replacement was a woven fiber material that should last longer. The photos didn't show the hood pad, but it's probably coming apart to if it's original. I replaced mine back circa 1997 about a year or two before I replaced the firewall insulation.

I'll be interested to see if this car makes the reserve and actually sells.

Duke