In the spring of 1976, a coup version was introduced on a shorter wheelbase than the sedan. This W123C/CE was available as a 230C (later 230CE) and as a 280C/CE in most markets; in North America there were additional 300CD versions with naturally aspirated, later turbocharged 3 liter diesel engines. It's a tribute to the car's instant popularity and possibly to the caution built into the production schedules, that nine months after its introduction, a black market had developed in Germany for Mercedes-Benz W123s available for immediate delivery. Customers willing to order new cars from their local authorized dealer for the recommended list price faced waiting times in excess of twelve months. Models that were barely used and were available almost immediately commanded a premium over the new price of around DM 5,000. In September, 1982, all models received a mild facelift. The rectangular headlights, previously fitted only to the 280/280E, were standardized across the board, as was power steering. Since February 1982 an optional 5-speed manual transmission was available in all models (except 300 TD). Production ceased at only 32,138 units. This particular 1984 Mercedes Benz 230CE is one of those 5 speed models and is being offered with only 117,000 original miles. We have ran an Autocheck and it does support the mileage and shows that the car is clean and free of any accidents. The car has benefited from one repaint in the original color of silver and looks great. Both front and rear bumpers are in great condition. The body on the car is very solid with no rot or bubbling that we have seen. The interior is all original with no major imperfections. The drivers side seat does show some minor wear to the bolster which is not uncommon. The rest of the seats are in great condition with no major wear to be found. The dash is solid along with the wood trim throughout the cabin. All gauges are in good working order along with the lights, blinkers, wipers and horn. The updated JVC stereo also works with no problems. The blue carpet is in great condition with no wear to be found. Under the hood, the 2.3 liter 4 cylinder runs great and is incredibly smooth. Connected to the 5 speed manual transmission, the car is a joy to drive and gets great gas mileage! The car does have A/C and it does blow cold. The engine compartment is very clean and tidy with no damage or rot that we have found. The underside is solid and all 4 tires have good tread life left on them. I wouldn't hesitate driving this car any distance. The current mileage shows 117,499 and the VIN number is WDB1232431A019291. The car is being sold on a clean Nebraska title where it has been since 2000.