A welcome ’80s throwback pair

Was it the decade that taste forgot, or was it one that, at least when it came to cars, there was plenty to like?

Time can be both a cruel mistress and one that’s benevolent and that’s probably the case with these two, spotted recently in Cologne by friend of The Special Sian.

Yes, the W123 range was launched at the end of 1975 but it’s usually seen as an ’80s motor, production ending at the start of 1986. Popular when new, popular today – and rightly so.This 280CE is just how we like ‘em: clearly much used and hopefully much loved, those later ’Benz starfish alloys add urban stance while the front spoiler is a reminder of the decade’s ’Benz modifying industry.

And the Escort? A MkIII Ghia three-door, sitting on early XR3 ‘telephone dial’ wheels added a touch of retro glamour to a city side street. Again it looks like it’s used, and why not?

Let’s be honest, non-performance MkIIIs need a bit of love, and the modern classics movement is doing that. Long may that continue.