Guys,

Mark Cosovich has now joined us. Many of you will know that he is a bit of a legend in W123 circles. This is what he has to say regarding someone's purchasing dilemma:

Hello All,

Here's my first post on the site regarding what to buy and more importantly what it costs to restore.

I bought my first in 1979 for the then princely sum of £6,500. A s/h 200, no radio, or P/steering, and a year's waiting list for a new one. I would remind you all that a new house could then be bought for £10/15K.

The point I am trying to make is that these were v,expensive cars when new and restoration of them correctly, now almost 30yrs later, is never going to be cheap or easy. The paintwork alone was a benchmark standard by which all other manufacturers measured their products. Simply to re-paint and restore the bodywork on most of these vehicles now costs thousands of pounds.

How do I know this? I exhibited my first restoration nearly 10 yrs ago and was the first person to show a W123 on my own stand at the N.E.C.classic show 4 years ago. I have currently over 20 models supplying our classic parts business and have the biggest stock of new/used parts in U.K. I have been instrumental in promoting this once unloved/ uncared for model to it's rightful place as "the finest saloon car of the 20th Century."

I am available to answer your queries through this site (Commercial requests for parts etc, please Phone 01792846888 or email markcosovich at btconnect.com).

I have no wish to promote that business through this site, only to encourage and offer advice gained through 30yrs of ownership/dismantling restoration/service. I will be at the Mercedes-Benz Club National W123 Day in July and recommend all with an interest in this now classic, to join the club and attend.

So, fire away with your queries!

Regards, Mark