The 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300E 5-Speed just sold for $9,500, and that’s a deal for anyone looking to snag a rare manual version of this classic sedan.

This particular 300E packs a 3.0-liter inline-six engine and a five-speed manual transmission, which is a rare combo in the W124 series. Most buyers are familiar with the automatic versions, so this manual setup is a big draw for driving enthusiasts. The Smoke Silver Metallic paint paired with a Medium Red leather interior gives it a vintage yet sporty vibe. With 120,000 miles on the clock, it’s seen some road time, but that’s not a deal-breaker for these cars. They’re built to last, and the combination of features like a sunroof and automatic climate control makes it a comfortable ride.

As for the auction, the bidding was quite lively, with 39 bids flying in before the hammer fell. Given that the fair value estimate for this car was pegged at $11,800, the sale price of $9,500 is a solid 20% below market value. That’s a strong indicator that the buyer got a good deal, especially considering the rarity of a manual transmission in this generation.

Community feedback was positive, with one user noting, “what a great buy on a car you hardly ever see – a W124 manual.” This sentiment reflects the excitement around finding a well-maintained example of a model that doesn’t pop up often, especially in a desirable spec.

For those interested in hunting down a similar ride, focus on the transmission type and mileage. A manual transmission can significantly impact value and desirability, so make sure to verify the condition and service history. Look for records indicating that the car was well cared for, especially if it’s high mileage. A good maintenance history can mean the difference between a headache and a joyride.

See all Mercedes-Benz W124 300E & E320 Sedan listings on [Friday's Watchlist](https://fridayswatchlist.com/search?make=Mercedes-Benz&model=W124%20300E%20&%20E320%20Sedan).