Mercedes-Benz 280 TE sold for $252,000 after 38 years buried

A rare 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 TE has sold at auction for $252,000, setting a record for the W123 series. The vehicle's unique history began when it was parked in a garage near Avellino, Italy, shortly after its purchase.

Following a devastating 6.9 magnitude earthquake and subsequent landslide in 1980, the garage was buried, leaving the car trapped underground for nearly 40 years. When the vehicle was finally recovered in 2018, it remained in remarkably original condition with fewer than 6,100 kilometers on the odometer.

To preserve its historical integrity, the Scott Grundfor Company performed only essential maintenance rather than a full restoration. The car features the rare Nickel Green paint color and original MB-Tex upholstery. The sale was conducted by Gooding & Company, significantly exceeding the initial estimate of $130,000 to $160,000.