Mercedes-Benz Turns 100: How a Pristine W123 230E Stole the Show in George
A Valentines Day Date With History
What if you could drive home a piece of automotive history? That was the tantalising question hanging in the air on 14 February 2026, as thousands of petrolheads descended upon the Eden Technical High School in George for the 29th George Old Car Show (GOCS). This wasnt just another Sunday gathering of shiny metal. It was a full-blown centenary celebration, marking 100 years of Mercedes-Benz and 140 years since Carl Benz patented the first horseless carriage.
The air was thick with the smell of old leather, warm oil, and pure nostalgia. Over 9,000 enthusiasts flooded through the gates, proving that the allure of the three-pointed star is as strong as ever. And while the grounds were packed with priceless classics, one particular car—a pristine W123 230E—had everyone whispering. Why? Because its not just on display. Its up for grabs.
A Century of Stuttgarts Finest
To understand the weight of this event, you have to look back. June 1926 saw the merger of Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft and Benz & Cie, creating Daimler-Benz AG. That makes 2026 a genuine milestone. The shows theme, Pioneers of Motoring, was a fitting tribute, bringing together a collection of early-year examples that most people only ever see in museums.
Were talking about replicas of the 1886 Benz Patent-Motorwagen and the 1901 Benz Ideal. But the real heavy hitters were the originals: a 1913 Benz 8/20 PS Tourenwagen, a 1935 Mercedes-Benz W23 130H, a 1938 Mercedes-Benz W142 Type 320, and the absolutely stunning 1935 Mercedes-Benz 500K Special Roadster. These arent just cars; they are rolling sculptures that tell the story of how we got from horse-drawn carriages to the modern highways we take for granted.
As Waldo Scribante, chairman of the Southern Cape Old Car Club (SCOCC) and founder of the Scribs BENZeum, put it: “Not only is it 140 years since the first motor vehicle was patented, but also a century since Mercedes-Benz joined the fray. Our Old Car Show honoured this remarkable history with a rare collection of metal on display.”
The W123 Time Capsule
While the 500K Roadster might be the crown jewel for purists, the peoples champion was undoubtedly the W123 230E sitting in the giveaway corner. Sponsored by MUA Insurance, this car is a time capsule. Its not often you see a four-decade-old car with the original stickers still on the inside of the boot lid sill and the fuel tank.
“Its unbelievable to see all the original T-plate numbers still visible on all the glass of this car,” said Vajra Singh, CEO of MUA Insurance. “The provenance of this car is clearly evident th rough these original sandblasted numbers on every window, showing the rare originality of this four-decade old beauty.”
This specific model is also celebrating its 50th anniversary. With an authentic mileage of under 125,000km, its barely broken in. The lucky draw for this car is set to take place on 21 March at the Lourensford Wine Estate in Somerset West. The proceeds from the draw are going to charitable causes, which makes the prospect of winning it even sweeter.
More Than Just a Car Show
The George Old Car Show isnt just about static displays. Its a living, breathing community event. This year also commemorated the 20th Vet Tour, which kicked off in Prince Albert on Friday, 13 February. Organised by Philip Kuschke, this tour is strictly for vehicles manufactured without front brakes—a true test of courage and skill. Leading the lineup was none other than the Benz Patent-Motorwagen, a fitting leader for a convoy of immaculate old-timers.
Alewijn Dippenaar, head show organiser, highlighted the massive effort behind the scenes. “Whether exhibitor, stallholder or funder, everyone played their part. Over 2,000 people actively formed part of the show, including vendors at snuffelstalletjies, food and motor-related stalls.”
Dippenaar also offered a philosophical take on why these events matter. “By doing that, they make accessible a timeframe and a part of history that most people wont be able to experience.” He noted that cars can be classified into three categories: “Before my time, In my time, and Living the now.” Walking through the gates of the GOCS, you get to experience all three simultaneously.
Your Chance to Live the Legacy
The celebration isnt over yet. If you missed the show, you still have a chance to write your own chapter in this story. The W123 230E is still up for grabs. Whether youre a lifelong Mercedes fanatic or someone who just appreciates a car with a story, this is a rare opportunity.
As Vajra Singh concluded, “Handing over the keys to this remarkable specimen will not be easy. Weve spent many a mile behind the wheel, with memories of a bygone era of motoring flashing through. This is more a time capsule were giving away than an automobile.”
Even TopGear SAs Publishing Editor, Avon Middleton, got behind the wheel, reminiscing about childhood memories in the back seat of a W123. Its a car that connects generations.
So, what are you waiting for? The draw is on 21 March. You can enter by visiting www.mua.co.za. Who knows? You might just be the one driving off into the sunset in a piece of history. After all, as Dippenaar says, cars arent just transport; they are the markers of our lives. Which era will you be living in next?
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Mike Brown
Mike Brown – One of those authors who helps readers not get lost in today's news flow. He dives into political affairs as well as world events, social trends, and everyday stories that matter to everyone. The main focus of his work is fact-checking, clear language, and the ability to lay out the key points so that the reader gets a comprehensive and reliable picture of the topic in just a few minutes.
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