With the term CASE (Connected / Autonomous / Shared / Electric) symbolizing it, the automotive world is said to be in a once-in-a-century period of great change. Perhaps it is precisely because of this era that many car enthusiasts are looking back and focusing on the unique, "slightly old cars" they admired in their youth. Here, automotive journalist Fumio Ogawa introduces 10 classic Mercedes-Benz models he would like to drive now.

What is a classic car? There's no set definition, but it often refers to cars from about 20 to 45 years ago. On the other hand, age can also be a factor. For example, a car you longed for when you were too young to drive might be called your "my classic car."

In Japan, I believe Mercedes-Benz is the king of classic cars. This is because there is a considerable variety of models, and the fan base is wide and strong.

Therefore, it is difficult to definitively declare one model as the pinnacle of classic Mercedes. For instance, based on styling and ambiance, the SL (code name W113) introduced in 1963 and its successor (R107) from '71 are still very attractive today.

I once heard that "the English say that the older the shoes and the Mercedes, the better." Apparently, shiny new things are considered uncool. The style of someone who has been driving a Mercedes-Benz for a long time is valued. It's the same with John Lobb or Edward Green shoes; they are meant to be worn and cared for over many years.

Naturally, Mercedes-Benz cars are durable. For example, the "W123" (code name), introduced in 1976 and known as the compact Mercedes, was designed for a mileage of over one million kilometers. Many are still in active service today.

However, owning an older Mercedes-Benz requires a commitment to fairly frequent maintenance. Mercedes-Benz's philosophy is to replace wear parts at shorter intervals to maintain optimal performance.

Still, just hearing the indescribable sound of the door closing with a solid thud when you get in will make you feel it was worth choosing a classic Mercedes.

In the compact class, the seats in the first generation of the W124 series, introduced from '84 to '89, were also superbly crafted. Palm flocking (cushioning woven from palm fiber and horsehair) used in high-end European furniture was placed over the springs, and artisans shaped the seat's contours with sponge.

The S-Class (W126), introduced in '79, is a personal favorite. Some versions of this car featured velour (velvet) upholstery, which is far more luxurious than leather. It's pleasantly soft, feels good against the skin, and effectively absorbs road shocks.

As a manufacturer of world-class luxury cars, Mercedes-Benz possesses a unique worldview. With classic models, if you can budget for the necessary maintenance, you can enjoy a distinctive charm that is now rarely found, at a relatively affordable price.

Therefore, choosing a classic Mercedes-Benz that is still worth driving today is akin to choosing a worldview, making a general recommendation difficult. So, I have compiled a list of 10 cars I would personally like to drive.

Difficult to acquire, but its overwhelming power and build quality are astounding. In the '60s, Eric Clapton and George Harrison drove the long-wheelbase version themselves.

A compact-class station wagon. Its utilitarian design is endearingly quirky and remains popular today. Even 40-year-old models show little wear, a testament to its exceptional quality. Its popularity isn't affected by its lower ranking on this list.

The early models, with their functional design reminiscent of Braun products, are particularly appealing. However, the accelerator pedal is incredibly heavy. The cabriolet or the short-wheelbase two-door versions have a particularly distinctive character.

The R107, also known as the "flat SL," is elegant and wonderful. While its body rigidity might have been a compromise, its style makes it forgivable. It's the embodiment of the aesthetic that roadsters should be stylish.

This model, commonly known as the "double bumper," marked the beginning of Mercedes-Benz using the S (Super) class designation. Though robust, its construction is superb. With its abundant chrome, it might have seemed a bit rustic at one time, but now it feels fresh.

The chassis is faster than the engine. This has always been Mercedes-Benz's policy. This model, however, flips that around, fitting the most powerful engine the chassis could handle. It's a four-door sports car that typically has a 6.3-liter V8 engine in a chassis designed for a 3-liter engine.

The 190 series, with its compact dimensions of about 4.4 meters in length and 1.7 meters in width, was revolutionary. While the 2-liter 190E was well-built but slow, this sports model was groundbreaking. Its excellent handling began to associate Mercedes with sportiness.

Personally, I'd choose this coupe for its style. Based on the sedan, the wheelbase and overall length were shortened by 85 millimeters for a more agile feel. The pillarless side windows, encircled by chrome, also contribute to its attractive graphic design. Its rarity in the used car market is another plus.

In terms of build quality, this is the last model to feature the high-quality construction of post-war Mercedes-Benz cars (especially up to the '89 Series 1). While the station wagon remains highly popular, the sedan also offers a superb driving experience. It might be an overlooked gem. The top-of-the-line 500E, produced by Porsche, is highly coveted by enthusiasts.

Personally, I find its perfectly balanced styling to be the best for a sedan. The suspension is a bit firm, making the ride less comfortable, but for this level of style, I can tolerate it. The SEC coupe also has a pleasingly sporty finish.