Even a W123 can be complex compared to something like a spartan 1979 Dodge Aspen.

Electric power windows, vacuum-operated power locks, telescopic steering column, power-adjustable mirrors, a radio that does AM and FM...

Fancy stuff seemed pretty common on those (awesome, stout) German luxury cars.

The more I think about it and read comments here, the less sure I am that the gilded age of simple, reliable cars has ever actually existed. :)