This car has not been produced for a very long time, it looks already outdated, but still, there are still lovers of antiquity who find these cars and bring them to mind, after which they drive for some time. Moreover, this is a Mercedes, high-class build quality, so even today you can find surviving copies. First of all, before buying, you need to know what things to look for when buying.

Strengths of Mercedes in the back of W124

This body first appeared in 1984, station wagons were also available - the S124 and the C124 coupe. After its predecessor, the design of the new cars looked unusual at first. But on the other hand, a revolutionary body and suspension design was used. A successful multi-link rear suspension is used here, and MacPherson struts are used in front.

The dimensions of the new E-Class have now increased markedly. The car has become safer in case of an accident, because straight spars are used, reinforcing inserts in the doors and dashboard. Even the steering wheel is harmless. There is an encapsulation system in the engine compartment, thanks to which it has become quieter in the cabin.

For the first time, airbags appeared, initially there was an airbag for the driver, and after re-styling they also added for the passenger, it was installed instead of the glove compartment. There was also a two-way climate control, high-quality music, electric drives for mirrors, doors and seats, even a memory on the seats, a system that maintains the level of the body during turns, one large wiper, aBS system, turbocharging on diesel engines, a V8 engine appeared in the E500 configuration. Today, of course, you won't surprise anyone with these options, but in those years it was a breakthrough in the automotive industry.

The workmanship was excellent, and the previous generation W123 was generally considered eternal, so after its discontinuation, many taxi drivers staged protests. But the W124 is pretty sturdy too, with the price of suspension parts going up. These cars were produced until 1996, more than 2,500,000 cars were produced. And this body was officially named the E-class.

Despite the fact that the car is already old, but Mercedes is a serious brand, so if the car is in good condition, then it is considered a rare and classic car, which is not a shame to drive even today. If the car is not looked after, then it very quickly turns into a heap of scrap metal. But if you wish, even today you can still find well-groomed cars, but you will have to pay a little money for them. Already dead and rusty cars are given away cheaply, so you need to be careful when buying.

The Mercedes company goes to meet those who want to restore an old car, if there is money, then there are no problems with spare parts and service. But as a rule, those who buy such cars don't have much money, because they love these cars because they are inexpensive, since they are old, and they have a low operating cost. And since the owners do not have money for repairs, then secondary market it is difficult to find a decent copy, many cars are in disrepair.

Body

Already 30 years for a body is a serious period. Especially if the machine is operated in winter. But since the quality of the body and its painting is very high, rust hardly appears on it. Over time, of course, it appears and it becomes more difficult to fight corrosion. Therefore, now we need to be prepared for the fact that rust is already beginning to appear. If the car was followed and small foci of rust were immediately removed, then of course this is a plus, but usually all this work falls on the next owner.

Rust can be found under bumpers, on doors and on the underbody. Also, glasses in the front of the car and front and rear side members are considered a problem area. Therefore, who does not understand welding, it is better not to buy such a car right away. And in general, bodywork is quite costly, so it is better to look for a car with a whole body, since there are still such cars.

You also need to check the thresholds and in general, the entire bottom of the car must be checked without fail. For those who want the car to serve for some more time, it is necessary to periodically make an anticorrosive underbody. But as a rule, only fans of the brand do this, because this event costs money, and who wants to invest in an old car?

But if the car looks very good, then it's not a fact that everything is in order, perhaps the car was in an accident and was assembled from several pieces, so you need to look for traces of overcooking of the body. But if it was welded from several parts, then there is nothing particularly terrible here, the main thing is that the repair is of high quality. You also need to protect the plastic elements on the body, if they are in order, then the body will last longer. The original bumpers should also be protected, because they are stronger than the Chinese ones.

Salon

Everywhere in the cabin natural wood, genuine leather or fabric. It can be seen that the premium class. There is also plastic - handles and small interior parts are made of it. The salon here is classic, as on vintage car, but the comfort is felt, the car is cozy and pleasant, despite the fact that it is so many years old.

In the E-class W124, there is already a heater in the washer reservoir, which is powered by the engine cooling system. The wiper stop zone is also heated, the rear windows are well blown.

The seats are comfortable, even ordinary fabric ones, and if you find a sports version, the seats are even more comfortable in it, just like on modern cars, but without ventilation and massage. But by age, the interior is more stable than the body, but even if you find a car with a dead interior, you can find all the necessary elements for the interior on the market.

Electrician

Over time, the wiring and some actuators can simply wear out. Usually the door wiring wears out, the plastic on the switchgear also ages under the hood and the relay can wear out.

But in general, structurally, the machine is quite simple, so any normal electrician can solve any problem. But it often happens that to fix electrical problems, you will have to remove the interior to get to some systems. The motor control system is also not eternal, and repair parts cost money.

Naturally aspirated diesel engines are considered the cheapest in service, because they have no electronics at all, in-line injection pumps are simple, which is a big plus for cars of this age. But on 200 Mercedes, electronically controlled carburetors are used, there are more problems with them than with conventional system injection. To set up a carburetor, you need to look for a specialist, as a rule, you will not find them anymore, and electronics can also be a hassle.

Suspension

In the E-Class, the suspension is very strong, but in the predecessor it was even stronger, but the handling was worse because there was no multi-link in the back. Progress is always good, so new mercedes became safer despite being rear-wheel drive. Even rear axle steering a little when cornering.

When driving around the city, the suspension easily serves at least 200,000 km. Spare parts are inexpensive, easy to replace. The only thing that is not particularly pleasing is that the body wears out at the attachment points on the front suspension. MacPherson struts are used here, with the rack separate from the spring, while the shock absorber is here in the role of a supporting element.

As for the hydropneumatic system that maintains the level of the body, its repair will cost a lot of money, therefore, usually this system does not work and instead of special shock absorbers, ordinary shock absorbers are installed.

Steering

In the W124, the steering is not particularly reliable, no one is engaged in its bulkhead, and the new power steering pump costs a lot of money. There are configurations with a classic steering gear, but over time it loses precision in steering and backlash appears. But if you can restore the steering, then it will last a long time.

Brakes

In general, there are no problems with the brake system in Mercedes cars. The correct design excludes the presence of weak points, the main thing is to change pads and brake discs in time if necessary. ABS has been standard equipment since 1989, it is not yet very efficient, but the brakes are more efficient than their predecessors.

Of course, there are neglected cases when the ABS sensors are out of order, the cylinders are acidified, and the parking brake has stopped working. But it depends on the owner, spare parts for the Mercedes E-class in the back of the W124 are not very expensive, so you can do it once and forget it.

Since the Mercedes E-class in the back of the W124 is rear-wheel drive, this means that you need to pay attention to the propeller shaft, rear gearbox, crosspieces and flanges. The oil in the gearbox must be changed and its level monitored. After the purchase, you can immediately change it, because it is rare when the previous owner knows when the oil in it changed at all.

There are also cars with all-wheel drive, of course, there are fewer of them, but all-wheel drive versions have more potential trouble. Moreover, the details for front drive cost quite a lot of money. The weak link here is the intermediate shaft, which passes through the motor sump. If the transfer case fails, this is a big cost - repairs will cost $ 2,000, and a new such transfer case assembly costs about $ 7,000 - more than the car itself. So, it is better to bypass such old Mercedes with all-wheel drive right away or ask in what condition the all-wheel drive parts are.

Even the front suspension parts on four-wheel drive vehicles are more expensive than rear-wheel drive vehicles. But you can install during the repair transfer case from the next generation of the E-class - W210, but the motor will also have to be taken from the W210. It makes sense to simply convert the all-wheel drive versions into rear-wheel drive versions in case of breakdown. Under the hood of all-wheel drive E-class Mercedes, in most cases, 6-cylinder engines with a volume of 2.6 and 3.0 liters are installed. But sometimes diesel all-wheel drive versions come across.

Transmission

Automatic transmissions are quite reliable, these are 4-speed transmissions with hydraulic control... If you change the oil and oil seals in the box, then the box serves at least 500,000 km. But in fact, rarely does anyone change the oil, they do not monitor the oil level either, and no one cleans the radiators, so the boxes overheat and fail faster. If the box fails, the overhaul will cost at least $ 1,000.

It often happens that the reverse gear starts to engage poorly. But in most cases, clutches and brake bands simply wear out. If you periodically change the oil in the box, then it will serve for a long time. But if the box has to be repaired, they usually do it by changing it in the assembly or installing a mechanical box.

Sometimes there are cars produced after 1993 with a powerful engine and a 5-speed automatic transmission. This 5-speed gearbox is mechanically no different from a 4-speed gearbox, just 1 gear was added. The control system in a 5-mortar already with electronics. There is no forced blocking of the torque converter, so the gas turbine engine lasts much longer and the oil becomes contaminated more slowly. So that, automatic boxes on the Mercedes E-class are reliable, the main thing is to maintain them correctly.

Motors

Motors are different, the workmanship is at a high level, so they continue to serve to this day, of course there are problems, but with proper care, they are reduced to a minimum.

Gasoline 4-cylinder M102 engines with a volume of 2 and 2.3 liters on cars manufactured before 1993

In most cases, 4-cylinder engines were installed in the Mercedes E-class in the body of W124, before the restyling of 1993, M102 engines with a volume of 2 and 2.3 liters were installed, these are 8-valve engines, which do not have very much thrust, but the dynamics of acceleration is quite normal, even with an automatic transmission. The oldest cars were equipped with electronically controlled Stromberg 175 CDT carburetors, they are quite reliable, but after many years its settings can get lost.

In these carburetors, the design is not as simple as on the Solex, so many owners simply installed domestic carburetors in their Mercedes, which can be adjusted at almost every garage service station. More modern cars with a KE-Jetronic injector last longer because the mechanical injection system is quite successful. But when it fails, it causes serious difficulties.

In general, the system is not complicated, but it does not have self-diagnostics, so in order to repair it, you need to find qualified craftsmen. But if you don't want to bother, then you can simply change the assembly assembly, but it will cost a lot of money. The new KE-Jetronic dispenser will cost around $ 500.

Some replace the mechanical injection with a simpler electronic one, and the car will be able to drive normally. After 20 years of operation, the wiring sometimes crumbles if the car was not carefully used and was not in the garage, but on the street. The main thing is to change the oil on time with all filters, then the engine will be able to drive 500,000 - 1,000,000 km. It is also necessary not to kill the motor on purpose and often not to drift in the car, if you just drive adequately, then it is essentially "eternal". The M102 engine has a timing chain, which can be changed after about 300,000 km. Tensioners also last a long time.

The main thing during the purchase is to carefully inspect the car and it is better to avoid dealers and take the car from its owner, who drove it and looked after it. The appearance of a car can tell a lot about its owner and how it drives.

Gasoline engines M111 with a volume of 2 and 2.2 liters - 4-cylinder

These engines were produced after 1993, just after the restyling, when the cars were called the E-class. They come with electronic injection. The design of these motors is more complex, so maintenance is a little more hassle. But despite this, they also serve for a very long time. M111 motors have proven themselves well, they were also installed on the C-class in the back of the W203. These motors have 16 valves, higher power and reliability at a very high level.

If the mileage exceeds 250,000 km, then you can take a closer look at the timing mechanism and listen to how it works. And if extraneous noises appear, then it is better to change not only the chain, but also the entire timing mechanism.
But if you drive carefully, then before 500,000 km. you don't have to worry about anything.

Gasoline 6-cylinder M103 engines with a volume of 2.6 and 3 liters until 1993

These are more powerful engines with a KH-Jetronic injector, the same as in 4-cylinder engines. In general, the motors are no different. Sometimes there are cases when the timing chain stretches very quickly - after about 150,000. But this is the result of fast driving and not careful maintenance.

Gasoline engines M104 with 6 cylinders and a volume of 2.8, 3.0 and 3.2 liters

These engines are found on cars manufactured after 1990. They have 24 valves. The motors are legendary, they can be seen on cars with the inscription 280, 300 and 320 on the trunk.

Valve mechanism The order of the cylinders 1-5-3-6-2-4

M103.980 and M103.983
Manufacturer	Mercedes-Benz
Brand	M103.980 and M103.983
A type	Gas engine
Volume	2962 cm 3
Maximum power	179 l. from., at 5600 rpm
Maximum torque	260 Nm, at 4250 rpm
Configuration	in-line, 6-cylinder.
Cylinders	6
Valves	12
Cylinder diameter	82.9 mm
Piston stroke	80.25 mm
Compression ratio	9,2
Supply system	Bosch KE-Jetronic
Cooling	liquid
Valve mechanism	overhead camshaft
The order of the cylinders	1-5-3-6-2-4

OM601.812
Manufacturer	Mercedes-Benz
Brand	OM601.812
A type	diesel engine
Volume	1997 cm 3
Maximum power	72 l. from., at 4600 rpm
Maximum torque	123 Nm, at 2800 rpm
Configuration	in-line, 4-cylinder.
Cylinders	4
Valves	8
Cylinder diameter	87 mm
Piston stroke	84 mm
Compression ratio	22
The order of the cylinders	1-3-4-2

OM602.912
Manufacturer	Mercedes-Benz
Brand	OM602.912
A type	diesel engine
Volume	2497 cm 3
Maximum power	94 l. from., at 4600 rpm
Maximum torque	158 Nm at 2600 rpm
Configuration	in-line, 5-cylinder.
Cylinders	5
Valves	10
Cylinder diameter	87 mm
Piston stroke	84 mm
Compression ratio	22
The order of the cylinders	1-2-4-5-3

OM602.911
Manufacturer	Mercedes-Benz
Brand	OM602.911
A type	diesel engine
Volume	2497 cm 3
Maximum power	90 l. from.
Maximum torque	154 Nm
Configuration	in-line, 5-cylinder.
Cylinders	5
Valves	20
Cylinder diameter	87 mm
Piston stroke	84 mm
Compression ratio	22
The order of the cylinders	1-2-4-5-3

OM602.962
Manufacturer	Mercedes-Benz
Brand	OM602.962
A type	turbocharged diesel engine
Volume	2497 cm 3
Maximum power	126 l. from., at 4600 rpm
Maximum torque	231 Nm, at 2800 rpm
Configuration	in-line, 5-cylinder.
Cylinders	5
Valves	10
Cylinder diameter	87 mm
Piston stroke	84 mm
Compression ratio	22
The order of the cylinders	1-2-4-5-3

OM603.912
Manufacturer	Mercedes-Benz
Brand	OM603.912
Volume	2996 cm 3
Maximum power	109 l. from., at 4600 rpm
Maximum torque	185 Nm at 2800 rpm
Configuration	in-line, 6-cylinder.
Cylinders	6
Valves	12
Cylinder diameter	87 mm
Piston stroke	84 mm
Compression ratio	22
The order of the cylinders	1-5-3-6-2-4

Transmission Body modifications

Sedan
Body type	4-door sedan (5-seater)
Wheelbase	2800 mm
Length	4755 mm
Width	1740 mm 1795 mm (E500)
Height	1430 mm 1407 mm (E500) 1450 mm (4Matic)

Station wagon
Body type	5-door station wagon (5-seater)
Wheelbase	2800 mm
Length	4780 mm
Width	1740 mm
Height	1520 mm 1530 mm (4Matic)

Coupe
Body type	2-door compartment (4-seater)
Wheelbase	2715 mm
Length	4670 mm
Width	1740 mm
Height	1410 mm

Cabriolet
Body type	2-door convertible (4-seater)
Wheelbase	2715 mm
Length	4670 mm
Width	1740 mm
Height	1392 mm

Long sedan
Body type	6-door sedan
Wheelbase	3600 mm
Length	5540 mm
Width	1740 mm
Height	1475 mm

On the market Similar Models Bmw 5
Audi 100 / Audi A6 Segment E-segment Other Volume of the tank 70 l Designer Bruno Sacco Mercedes-Benz W124 at Wikimedia Commons

Mercedes-Benz W124 - a series of business class passenger cars of the German brand Mercedes-Benz, which was produced in 1984-1996.

It was first introduced in 1984 and was intended to replace the W123 series models. In 1995, the W124 sedan cars gave way to the next generation of the W210 E-class family in the Mercedes-Benz model range; station wagon cars ( S124) remained on the assembly line of factories in Sindelfingen, Bremen, Rastatt until April 1996.

History

Premiere (1984)

Mercedes-Benz W124

In order to reduce the risk of declining attention to the new line of business class cars mercedes-Benz decided not to present the W123 series at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 1984, where other brands also brought their own new or updated products. Instead, the new series of Mercedes-Benz W124 cars debuted at the Seville Motor Show (Spain) on November 5, 1984 in a sedan body with seven engine types: 200, 230E, 260E, 300E, 200 D, 250D, 300D. Deliveries of orders to customers began in the first months of 1985. Within the framework of this model, the most advanced developments of their time were introduced. The bodies of the W124 were distinguished by the most perfect aerodynamics thanks to a plastic molding for directing air under the car, fuel consumption and noise level from the oncoming air flow were reduced. Only one windshield wiper was installed, the mechanism of which was designed to cover the maximum glass area. Also worth mentioning is the heating of the washer reservoir, the area of \u200b\u200bthe wipers on the windshield and the pipes with the help of coolant. As well as electric heating of washer fluid nozzles. The rear head restraints were reclined at the touch of a button on the front console to improve visibility through the rear window. For models with four-cylinder engines, a four-speed manual transmission was offered as standard, for six-cylinder engines a five-speed gearbox was offered. On request, a four-speed automatic transmission could be installed.

Also introduced was the new M104 3.0-liter gasoline engine (220 hp) with four valves per cylinder. It was previously tested on the R129 roadster and is now offered for all three main body styles in the W124 series: 300E-24, 300CE-24 and 300TE-24. The coupe with this engine became the flagship model of the series and received as standard equipment power windows, leather trim for the steering wheel and gearshift lever, light-alloy wheels, wood inserts and panels of walnut root, as well as lighting of doors when they are opened.

Since May 1990, an extended sedan has been added to the model range of bodies (the wheelbase is increased by 800 mm). The elongated cars were intended as hotel cars or taxis. Also, hearses and ambulances were produced on an extended chassis. Two extended models were presented at the show - the 260E Lang and the 250D Lang. They had six doors and an additional full-size row of seats, which made it possible to easily accommodate 8 people in the cabin. In June 1990, production of the 250 TD TURBO started.

The main novelty of 1990 was the 500E model, introduced in June and equipped with a V-engine with 8 cylinders (four valves each), a displacement of 5.0 liters and a capacity of 326 horse power ... Equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission, the model developed a speed of 250 km / h and accelerated to 100 km / h in 6.1 seconds. The E500 was equipped with an engine from the R129 series 500SL and had significant structural differences from the rest of the W124. To prevent the wheels from turning, the ASR system ( traction control system), the rear suspension received hydropneumatic level control, the catalyst was almost doubled, and the KE-Jetronic injection system was replaced with electronic system LH-Jetronic.

Mercedes-Benz S124 after 1989

The 500E was developed in collaboration with Porsche. Cars were painted and assembled at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Sindelfingen (Stuttgart), and then chassis and the brakes were finished at Porsche's factory. Thus, the car was considered to be manufactured by Mercedes-Benz, had all the symbols of the Stuttgart company and "native" identification numbers. Externally, this model could be distinguished by widened wheel arches, wide low profile tires 225/55 ZR16 on alloy wheels with eight holes ("chamomile"), additional fog lights and other headlights built into the lower part of the front bumper (instead of the fog lights sector, a high-beam sector appeared in the middle), other bumpers with spoilers and other side leaves. Air conditioning, four power windows and caged seat upholstery were standard on the 500E.

In September 1991, the fifth body type of the W124 series was presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show - a convertible (internal index A124), model 300CE-24. The twenty-year hiatus in the production of four-seater convertibles was finally overcome. Cars became available for purchase in 1992. In the same year, the new 400E model appeared. It was powered by a 4.2-liter engine from the corresponding S-Class 400SE of the Mercedes-Benz W140 series. This model, of course, did not reach the 500E, but it had good characteristics (279 hp, 7.2 seconds to 100 km / h, 250 km / h maximum speed with a limiter). Externally, the model did not differ in any way from the others, however, the front part was redesigned for such a large engine, and part of the chassis and brake system migrated from R129. The catalyst was borrowed from the 500E model. The model was offered for a much lower amount - 85 thousand marks against 135 thousand for 500E.

In June 1992, the two millionth car of the W124 series was released, and in September there was an almost complete change in the engines of gasoline models. Engines now have four valves per cylinder, and the old injector systems have been replaced by newer electronic injection systems (PMS / HFM). The new engines featured increased power, maximum torque also increased and shifted to lower revs. Fuel consumption has decreased. Standard installation catalyst helped to reduce the emission of harmful substances into the atmosphere. Of the old engines, only the 3.0-liter M103 on the 4MATIC models and the M104 on the 300 CE-24 (convertible) model remained at this time. In the same year, official sales of the W124 began in the USSR. The first dealer was Logovaz. The first officially sold model was the Mercedes-Benz E230. Since June 1991, the company discontinued production of the 200 TD.

Since October 1992, airbags, central locking and electrically adjustable left and right exterior mirrors were fitted as standard on the series. The four-cylinder models were equipped with a five-speed manual transmission at no additional cost.

Restyling (1993)

Mercedes-Benz W124 after restyling in 1993

Mercedes-Benz A124 convertible after 1993

From late 1992 to mid-1993, diesel engines were also modernized. The five- and six-cylinder engines also switched to four valves per cylinder, while the four-cylinder and turbocharged engines remained with two valves per cylinder. In the new four-valve models, the air intakes were located in the form of narrow slots on the right front fender, as before on turbodiesels. The new engines had more torque and power, and fuel consumption at full load was reduced by 8%. In addition, the level of emissions of harmful substances has been reduced by 30%. To further reduce emissions, all diesel models are fitted with a recirculation system as standard exhaust gases and an oxidation catalytic converter.

In 1993, the class designations were changed, the entire W124 series now belongs to the E-class. Since carburetor engines were no longer produced, the letter "E" at the end of the index, indicating the difference between injection models, was now canceled. All models now received the letter "E" (as a class attribute) at the beginning of the model name. Next was the usual index of the engine displacement. It was also decided to abandon the letters "C" and "T" for the designation of the body type, and the letter "D" was canceled for diesel models. Diesel models received the "DIESEL" and "TURBODIESEL" prefix on the right side of the boot lid. However, it was possible to refuse any inscriptions on the trunk lid by choosing the appropriate free option when ordering a car.

The change in the classification system coincided with another major update to the series' appearance. It was due to general stylistic changes in all classes at the same time. One of the main distinctive exterior changes is the new radiator grille, which has now been integrated into the bonnet like on the S-Class. The branded star on the hood has also been changed. The direction indicators at the front and rear have become colorless (white), the bulb inside them has become yellow-orange. The shape of the headlights has changed slightly. The taillights remain unchanged. The trunk lid has received a different shape. Protective bumper covers were painted in body color, and on the rear bumper the cover now reached the wheel arches. The wheels received light-alloy wheels with a new pattern and new hubcaps.

Completion of production

After the last restyling, the series was produced for two more years and in June 1995 it was gradually replaced by the new W210 series. Some of the models were phased out in 1995 (coupes and convertibles) and others in 1996. The S124 station wagon continued production after the sedan ended and the W210 began production. Two models of the W124 series, namely the E220 and E250 Diesel from 1995 to 1997, were assembled from ready-made CDK car kits at the Indian company TATA plant in the city of Pune. In 1996, the assembly of the W124 series continued at the Mercedes-Benz plant in South Africa. According to some reports, a small number of convertibles were produced on special orders in 1997 for the US market. In ten years of production, 340,503 units of the series were assembled in Bremen.

After the end of production, the Korean company SsangYong Motor Company licensed its own Chairman of the first generation on the W124 platform, which outwardly strongly resembled the S-class W140. More large car had a 2.9-meter wheelbase and a 3.2-liter engine produced by Mercedes-Benz.

North American performance

Low-powered versions of the machines were not supplied to the North American market. The rest were equipped with automatic transmission only. Outwardly, the North American models were somewhat different from the European ones:

• The headlights had a metal edging.
• The front direction indicators served as dimensions. On the E-class models, the diffuser was colorless, but had orange sides.
• Dipped beam on when ignition is on (Canadian models).
• There is no license plate space in the front bumper.
• The niche for the license plate in the trunk lid has changed, it has become convenient for using square license plates.

Description

Name

Until 1993, the principle of naming the models of the W124 series adhered to the following rules: number - engine volume in tens of cm 3; then the designation of the body type follows: the absence of the letter - sedan, FROM - compartment, T - station wagon; further engine designation: no letter - carburetor engine, E - injection engine, D - diesel engine, inscription Turbo indicates the presence of turbocharging; and 4MATIC denotes four-wheel drive modification (4x4).

After 1993: E - belonging to the E-class car family; figure - engine displacement in tens of cm 3. For example, the E200 is an E-class car with a 2.0 liter engine.

It is also worth mentioning the internal body indices, which denoted the bodies. different types, i.e. sedan, coupe, convertible and station wagon:

• W124 - sedan;
• S124 - compartment;
• A124 - convertible;
• S124 - station wagon.

Modifications

500E

1990 - model 500E, equipped with a V-shaped "eight" with four valves per cylinder, a displacement of 5.0 liters and a capacity of 326 liters. from. Equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission, the model developed a speed of 250 km / h and accelerated to 100 km / h in 6.1 seconds. The new model was based on the engine from the 500SL R129 series and has been significantly improved. To prevent wheel spin, the ASR system was installed as standard, the rear suspension received hydropneumatic level control, the catalyst was almost doubled, and the KE-Jetronic injection system was replaced by the LH-Jetronic electronic system. The 500E was developed by Mercedes-Benz engineers, with contributions from Porsche engineers. The bodies of the 500E / E500 models were built at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Sindelfingen, then the finished painted bodies were sent to the plant in Zuffenhausen for final assembly (installation of the engine, gearbox, chassis, etc.), and, finally, for the final pre-sale preparation of the car. again went to the plant in Stuttgart. Thus, the car was considered to be produced by Mercedes-Benz and had all the Mercedes-Benz symbols and “native” identification numbers. Externally, this model could be distinguished by widened wheel arches, other bumpers and side foliage, wide low-profile tires 225/55 ZR16 on alloy wheels with eight holes ("chamomile"), additional fog lamps and headlights with separate lamps built into the lower part of the front bumper low / high beam.

300E AMG Hammer

Mercedes-Benz 300 E AMG Hammer is a 300 E sedan with a 5.6 liter V8 engine from the 560 SEC, 360 hp installed in it. from. at 5500 rpm and with a torque of 510 Nm at 4000 rpm. 300 Е 5.6 AMG accelerated to a hundred in 5.4 s and developed a maximum speed of 303 km / h. In addition, it was possible to install the "eight" M117 with a volume of 6.0 liters, the power and torque of which were 385 liters. from. at 5500 rpm and 566 Nm at 4000 rpm, respectively. Acceleration of the latter to hundreds took 5.0 seconds and gained a maximum speed of 306 km / h. The engine was aggregated with a 4-speed automatic from the S-class and a Gleason-Torsen differential. In August 1987, Road & Track magazine wrote about it: "a sedan that drives like a Ferrari Testarossa." The car was equipped with a suspension from AMG with shorter springs and stiffer shock absorbers, 17-inch alloy wheels and Pirelli P700 tires measuring 215 / 45VR-17 at the front and 235 / 45VR-17 at the rear. Due to the optional front and rear spoilers, the drag coefficient was 0.32 (for the standard W124 Cx \u003d 0.31).

Sales

In 1993-94 in Germany, the price of a 124 series car was DM 46,341 for the 200D (75 hp) and DM 49,989 for the E200 petrol (136 hp).

Sales statistics for Mercedes W124 in various markets

Market	1985	1986	1987	1988	1989	1990	1991	1992	1993	1994	1995	1996
Germany	98 462	145 568	147 493	156 293	133 245	137 855	144 960	129 399	110 277	83 760	80 757 *	126 133 *
Great Britain	n / a	n / a	n / a	13 041	12 678	9417	9656	6947	n / a	n / a	n / a
France	n / a	9453	9852	10 713	10 834	12 321	12 123	12 183	10 202	9413	4838	n / a
Netherlands	4896	6105	5889	6360	5548	5293	4472	4610	2822	3225	3282*	5018*
USA	23 114	n / a	n / a	n / a	n / a	n / a	n / a	23 216	26 070	n / a	n / a	n / a

* Marks sales together with Mercedes-Benz W210

Notes

1. Mazur, Eligiusz. World of Cars 2006 2007. - Media Connection Sp. z o.o., 2006. - S. 226. - ISSN 1734-2945.
2. Armadoras establecidas en México hasta 2003 (unspecified) ... Metalmecanica.com (March 2003). Retrieved 8 May 2014.
3. Automobile US D284644 S (English). Google Patent. Retrieved February 17, 2017. Archived February 17, 2017.
4. , p. 81.
5. , p. 121.
6. , p. 106.
7. , Minor changes (1986-1988).
8. , p. 197.

The Mercedes W124 was unveiled in November 1984 at the Amsterdam Motor Show.

It was the brainchild of the then Stuttgart chief designer Bruno Sacco. The car belonged to the business class.

The design of the presented car was, as always, kept in a classic spirit, but at the same time, it fit perfectly into the technological style fashionable for that time. The interior and exterior design not only emphasized the solidity of the car, but was also thought out from a functional point of view (which, again, is typical for cars of this brand). Thanks to excellent aerodynamics, large headlamp units with the traditional arrangement of low and high beam lamps during long driving, even with high speedwere little affected by contamination. Plastic trim around the perimeter and edges of the bumpers protected the paintwork of the car from damage (while practically not affecting the appearance). Thanks to the superb aerodynamics, the driver always had excellent visibility through the always-clear rear window and was almost never afraid to get his hands dirty when opening the trunk.

Produced from 1985 to 1997. The car had a very low drag coefficient of 0.28. The air streams were distributed so that even with the windows open, the car was quite quiet.

The buyer was offered 5 body options:

1.Sedan (W124)

2.5 or 7 seater station wagon (S124

3. Coupe (C 124)

4. Cabriolet (A 124) Diesel engines were not installed on coupes and convertibles.

5.Small-series 6-door limousine (mainly for rental companies) (V124)

Length / width / height / base:
1.sedan - 4755mm / 1740mm / 1430mm / 2799mm,
2. station wagon - 4780mm / 1740mm / 1519mm / 1799mm,
3. compartment - 4671mm / 1740mm / 1410mm / 2715mm,
4.convertible - 4671mm / 1740mm / 1392mm / 2715mm.

Cars with 4 and 5-cylinder engines were equipped with manual transmission-4, for an extra charge - manual transmission-5. The same box was offered in the base for 6-cylinder and all-wheel drive models. For cars with V8 engines, the automatic transmission-4 was installed in the base.

In 1986, all-wheel drive modifications appeared. All-wheel drive was offered only for sedans and station wagons with 2.5D, 3.0D, 2.5TD, 3.0TD, 2.6, 3.0 and 2.8 engines.

The widest range of engines was offered to the buyer's choice.
Inline "fours" with a volume of 2.0l, 2.2l, 2.3l, 2.0l (diesel) with a capacity of 104hp (after restyling - 116hp); 150hp (rest.), 132hp (136hp) and 71hp (74hp) respectively; in-line diesel "fives" and "sixes" with a volume of 2.5l and 3l respectively with a capacity of 89hp (113hp) and 109hp (136hp) respectively; in-line turbodiesel "fives" and "sixes" with a volume of 2.5l and 3l, respectively, with a capacity of 122hp (125hp) and 143hp (147hp) respectively; before restyling, in-line petrol "sixes" with a volume of 2.6l and 3l with a capacity of 160hp were offered. and 188hp respectively, but after 1993 they were replaced by engines of 2.8 and 3.2 liters with a capacity of 197hp. and 220hp respectively. Cars with 4.2L V8 engines have been offered to customers since 1992, and 5-liter versions have been offered to customers since 1991. The first developed a power of 279hp, but the car, equipped with a five-liter V8, deserves special attention.

The Mercedes 500E was produced from 1991 to 1995. This car was created in cooperation with Porsche, all cars were assembled by hand, and it took 18 days to assemble. A total of 10479 copies of this model were created. In 1993, the model underwent a slight restyling and was renamed E500.

The car was equipped with an atmospheric 32-valve V8 engine with a volume of 4973 cm3. Power was 320hp, thrust - 470Nm. On the restyled version, the power was raised to 326hp, and the thrust - up to 480Nm due to the revised valve timing system. Acceleration 0-100 km / h was 6.5 seconds, top speed - 250 km / h (electronically limited). Fuel consumption averaged 14l / 100km. The cars were equipped with automatic transmission-4.

This model also had some features in the body structure and suspension. The car was 2.7cm lower than standard. The track has been increased by 3.81cm. The car was wider than the standard sedan (1796mm) and lower (1407mm). The steering has been completely redesigned.

Externally, the car differed only in widened front wheel arches and discs of increased dimension. The brakes were oversized, and the brakes were 4-piston, taken from the SL600. Until 1993, there were 300mm discs in front, and after - 320mm. At the back were installed brake discs measuring 277mm. The rims were 235 / 45R18.

The interior featured Recaro leather seats with reinforced lateral support. The car was exclusively 4-seater, as rear seats were separated by a refrigerator armrest. For the car, only one configuration was offered - the maximum. The client could only choose the color of the body and interior.

In 1993, the 500E Limited was introduced to a limited edition of 500 vehicles. In technical terms, the car was completely identical to him. All cars were painted in silver or dark blue metallic, bumpers were completely painted in body color, there was no speed limiter, so the car accelerated to 267 km / h.

The Sportline package was offered as an option on the regular W124. The package was offered from 1992 to 1995. In the American market, this package was offered only for 3-liter coupes and convertibles, and in the European market - for all bodies with 3-liter engines, and after restyling - with 3.2-liter engines. Cars equipped with such a package differed in other rims (205 / 55R16), sports seats, Sportline nameplates, side moldings and bumpers painted exclusively in gray, a suspension lowered by 1.5 cm and a manual transmission-5 or automatic transmission-4 with a sports mode.
The algorithm of the automatic transmission in sport mode was distinguished by faster gear changes, better responsiveness to the gas pedal, and during sudden starts, the rear of the car seemed to squat slightly before acceleration.
The suspension was stiffer than standard, and the steering was sharper.

A total of 8 W124 AMGs were created - 300E 3.0 AMG, 300E 3.2 AMG, 300CE 3.4 AMG, 300E 6.0 T AMG, 300CE 6.0 "Hammer" AMG, 300E 6.0 AMG and 300E 6.0 "Hammer" AMG, AMG E 36
The 300E 3.0 AMG is the most affordable AMG version. Engine - R6 with a volume of 3 liters with a capacity of 228 hp. The car was equipped with only manual transmission-5. It had a suspension lowered by 5mm, the interior remained intact (sheathed only with velor). The rims were 205 / 55R16. The same wheels were installed on all other AMGs in the body of the W124 with a 6-cylinder engine.

300E 3.2 AMG. Engine - R6 3.2-liter 245hp The car was equipped exclusively with manual transmission-5. There have been some changes in the cabin - the steering wheel has changed, the lateral support of the seats has been increased. The seats were trimmed with velor, for a surcharge - leather.

The same car was the Pace-Car in Formula 1.

The 300CE 3.4 AMG is the only AMG coupe in the C 124 body with a six-cylinder engine. Engine - R6 3.4 liter capacity 272hp The car was equipped with manual transmission-5, for a surcharge - automatic transmission-4.

Mercedes 300E 6.0 / 300E 6.0 T AMG. The cars were equipped with a 6-liter V8 engine with a capacity of 385hp. Wheels - 235 / 45R18. Cars were equipped only with automatic transmission-4. The salon was trimmed with the most expensive leather varieties.

AMG E36. M104.941 was installed in front, longitudinally. The power was 280 hp. at 5750 rpm; 385 Nm @ 4000 rpm 4-speed automatic transmission. Produced in the period 1994 - 95.

Mercedes 300E / CE 6.0 "Hammer" is the most expensive version of AMG. At the time of purchase, this car cost about 143.000DM !! Outside, this car was distinguished by a different body kit (bumpers, spoilers), the front and rear fenders "swelled" to incredible sizes to accommodate huge 255 / 45R18 wheels. The track was increased by 4 cm, the car had a suspension lowered by 4 cm, the interior was distinguished by almost racing seats, dashboard... The cars were equipped with automatic transmission-4. The cars were equipped with a V8 engine with a volume of 6 liters and a capacity of 385hp, but due to the reduced weight, the acceleration from 0-100km / h was 5 seconds! The body has become much more rigid due to the new diagonal and transverse struts.

Restyling of the model took place in 1993. At the same time, the marking changed: first there was a letter denoting the model, and then a 3-digit number denoting the volume (300E - before restyling, E300 - after restyling).

The W 124 was discontinued in 1995, giving way to the equally famous W 21 0. The wagon, sedan and coupe were removed in 1995, and the convertible (E220 and E320) in 1997.

And if, for example, you are more interested in buses than cars, then you can buy yourself a Mercedes minibus or a bus, a minibus of any other brand, on the Neoplan.ru website there is a huge selection of products: buses, minibuses, trucks - everything you need for trucks and passenger transportation!

The second generation of the Mercedes-Benz E-class with the W124 body has become a truly iconic car around the world. These cars can still be seen in almost any country where fan clubs are created and the owners lick their handsome men to perfection.

The Mercedes W124 is also loved in Russia, and especially various special versions, such as the Brabus 6.9 or AMG 560CE. But there were many more unusual versions, and we tried to collect them all in one review article.

Brabus 3.5 / 3.6 W124

Brabus has been refining Mercedes-Benz cars back in the 80s. For the W124, it offered a whole range of engines, and the starting models were Brabus 3.5 and Brabus 3.6. In fact, 3.5-liter cars were produced for a very short time, after which they began to produce a slightly more powerful version with a 6-cylinder 12-valve engine with a working volume of 3.6 liters instead. It produced 245 hp. and 360 Nm of torque. The maximum speed is 250 km / h.

Rare 3.5-liter engine

Brabus 6.0 / 6.5 / 6.9 W124

If you have the courage and money for a normal engine, then Brabus offered 3 options for power units with a working volume of 6.0, 6.5 and 6.9 liters. All of them were made on the basis of the most powerful W124 - E500, which we know under the nickname "Wolf". And if the E500 was equipped with a 5-liter engine with 322 hp, then the Brabus 6.5, for example, was 444 hp. This version accelerated to 100 km / h in 5.2 seconds, and the maximum speed was 285 km / h. The power of the 6-liter engine is 408 hp, and the 6.9-liter - 509 hp.

Of the external differences: branded alloy wheels, through which improved brakes are visible, a Brabus nameplate on the trunk lid and a sports exhaust. Salon, of course, in a very rich configuration. Do you know how much it cost in due time? In England, its price was 72,000 British pounds! And that's a lot!

Brabus 7.3 W124

Seven and three tenths of a liter from Brabus! Just think about these words. Brabus 7.3 has become the pinnacle of the range of modified cars with a body W124. Here are just some of the characteristics: displacement - 7255 cm3, power - 530 hp. at 5750 rpm, torque - 754 Nm at 3700 rpm, maximum speed - 307 km / h, acceleration to 100 km / h - 4.5 seconds. The approximate price for those times was DM 500,000! But there was an even more powerful version, which was called the Mercedes-Benz W124 Brabus E V12 7.3S with 582 hp. and a torque of 772 Nm. Bomb!

Brabus W124 station wagon and convertible

We are all used to seeing Brabus sedan cars. But the well-known tuning studio without any problems took on the revision of versions with different bodies, for example, a station wagon or a convertible. They were completely identical to the variants with a sedan body, but were content with only the "weakest" engines with a working volume of 3.5 and 3.6 liters.

Mercedes-Benz W124 SEC-Haube

One of the common stylistic methods for reworking the standard W124 was the Mercedes-Benz 500SEC C126-style hood. This rather ridiculous tuning added absurdity to the car's appearance, but became popular among German owners. There have even been Brabus versions with such a hood, one of which is shown in the photo.

Mercedes-Benz 300E 3.4-24V / E36 AMG

In 1988, AMG, then not yet owned by Mercedes-Benz, introduced a 3.4-liter 6-cylinder engine, which was installed on the 300E AMG 3.4, AMG 3.4 CE and 300TE 3.4 AMG (W124, S124, C124). It delivered 270 hp with ease. and used Bosch KE-Jetronic injection.

In the mid-90s, AMG developed a 3.6-liter engine. It was placed under the hood not only of the E36 AMG in the back of the W124, but also of the C36 AMG W202 and E36 AMG W210. The stunning powertrain produced 280 hp. and a torque of 385 Nm. It was the E36 AMG that became the main competitor to the Brabus 3.6 version.

Mercedes-Benz 300E 5.0 AMG / 5.6 AMG / 6.0 AMG / E60 AMG

The Mercedes-Benz 300E with a 5.6-liter AMG engine was the first sedan to break the 300 km / h mark. It was a completely insane record, because the sedans of that time (and modern ones too) were not capable of this. Fans of this car from the United States have dubbed this version of the Hammer (hammer). The V8 engine with a displacement of 5547 cm3 is a development of the AMG company. It produced 360 hp.

Ultimately, in 1987 the 5.6-liter V8 evolved into a 6-liter version with 385 hp. and a torque of 566 Nm. After upgrading the base model, it became known as. And back in 1984, AMG launched the 5-liter version of the 300E 5.0 AMG, producing 340 hp, pioneering the use of the V8 in the W124. In fact, AMG created the predecessor to the legendary 500E, which only appeared in the early 90s.

Mercedes-Benz 300 CE 3.4-24V / 5.6 AMG Widebody

Among all lineup The AMG W124 was a special model - the 300 CE 5.6 AMG Widwebody coupe with a wide body. Its technical characteristics were completely identical to the sedan version, but its appearance was striking in its aggressiveness and elegance. This is a very rare version that is almost impossible to find now.

But there is an even rarer thing. From 1988 to 1993, AMG produced 25 examples of the 300 CE 3.4-24V AMG Widebody Coupe. The 6-cylinder engine of this version was about 50 hp. (power 275 hp) more powerful than the standard 300E.

Mercedes-Benz E36 AMG Cabriolet

The E36 convertible is one of the rarest cars made by AMG with a 124 body. From 1993 to 1996, only 68 copies were released. Of these, 54 were left-hand drive and 14 right-hand drive. Now this version is a collector's item.

Tommy Kaira M30E W124

Famous Japanese tuning company Tommy Kaira became famous for its modifications japanese cars, but, as it turned out, she began her activity with work on European Mercedes-Benz sedans. In 1987, the studio introduced the M19 sedans based on the Mercedes-Benz 190E and the M30E based on the Mercedes-Benz 300E.

Under the hood of the M30E was a modified M103 engine with 225 hp. To a European, the external tuning kit will seem a little strange, and the three-spoke steering wheel - generally tasteless. But this is Japan! By the way, already in 1988, Tommy Kaira began to engage only in tuning Japanese cars.

Oettinger-Mercedes 300E 3.6 W124

German tuner Oettinger also had a 3.6-liter version based on the 300E in its arsenal. Its power was 240 hp. at 5800 rpm, the maximum speed is 250 km / h, and the acceleration to 100 km / h is 7.1 seconds.

But outwardly, the car was quite unassuming and looked almost like a standard one. The main difference is the Ronal alloy wheels and Oettinger decals on the body panels. The speedometer was marked up to 300 km / h.

GH Car-Design Mercedes-Benz 300E W124

The German tuning studio GH Car-Design has been producing a set of improvements for the Mercedes-Benz W201 and W124 for a very short time. The modified cars received new bumpers and door sills, as well as a "power" package for the engine. The 2-liter engine of the 200E model "accelerated" to 153 hp, and the 2.3-liter model 230E - up to 180 hp.

Boschert B300 (W124)

Imagine that you are living in the 80s and you really like the 300SL Gullwing. Where to get a modern analogue? The German engineer Hartmut Boschert also asked this question and quickly found the answer: we need to make such a car based on the W124.

The first Boschert B300 prototype was shown at the IAA Frankfurt Motor Show in 1989. The front end is borrowed from the SL R129 roadster. The rear roof pillars were shifted forward by 25 cm, and most importantly, they installed gull-wing doors, which occupied the entire space from the windshield to the rear window!

In 1989 they made a simpler version with conventional doors. It was planned to produce about 300 Boschert B300 cars, but this figure was never achieved. In addition, most of the coupes released were without super-doors. According to some reports, only 11 vehicles received gullwing doors. In 1990, Boschert B300 was priced at 165,000DM.

WALD Mercedes-Benz E-classe W124

Japanese tuning studio WALD is distinguished by exceptional productivity. It makes body kits for a huge number of models, including the W124. By the way, you can buy such a body kit even now!

Includes front and rear bumpers, side skirts and special fog lights. These few details simply flip the look of a sedan, coupe or station wagon. Many W124 owners consider the WALD body kit to be ideal and iconic. And we agree with them!

Carat by Duchatelet Mercedes-Benz E-class W124

The Belgian company Carat by Duchatelet is now engaged in booking executive class cars, and in the 80s was engaged in tuning Mercedes-Benz. Unlike many other tuners trying to give the W124 a more sporty look and character, Carat by Duchatelet focused on luxury.

The external body kit was extremely strict, and the rims were too “calm”. A small spoiler was installed on the trunk lid. But inside there was a paradise of luxury. For example, the dashboard, doors and center console all got real wood trim, and the steering wheel was replaced with a W126 steering wheel!

Carlsson C300 / C35-24 / C36-24 / C62 W124

I am sure that any fan of German cars knows the Carlsson tuning studio, which is engaged in the refinement of Mercedes-Benz. At one time, they had a hand in the W124, releasing a whole range of different options.

It all started with the Carlsson C300 based on the 300E. The sedan's engine produced 245 hp and that was just the beginning. It was followed by the C35-24 (not to be confused with the C35, which was made on the basis of the 190E) with a 3435 cc engine and a power of 275 hp, and the C36-24 - 3525 cc and 285 hp.

The company could modify any version of the W124, including a coupe, convertible and station wagon. The top of the lineup for Carlsson was the C62, with its 6.2-liter engine producing 425 hp. and 620 Nm. It accelerated to 100 km / h in 5.4 seconds, and at maximum speed it was only slightly behind similar cars from AMG and Brabus.

CDS Tuning Mercedes-Benz E-class W124

This is not photoshop, but a real W124 with a Mercedes-Benz SL R129 front end. A little higher, we wrote about the Boschert B300 coupe with gull-wing doors and a front end borrowed from the R129.

The now defunct company CDS Tuning also used a similar solution and produced not only coupes, but also sedans with such a front end. How many cars were converted is unknown, but probably very few.

Goeckel Tuning Mercedes-Benz E-class W124

German studio Goeckel still produces a wide range of W124 customization kits, both visual and technical. For example, the atelier's range includes AMG-style body kits, and even a Hammer version with a wide body! You can view the entire list of parts on the official website.

Haslbeck Mercedes-Benz 300E W124

Another German company was engaged in styling the W124. All changes were purely visual. Cars modified in the Haslbeck workshop received new bumpers, side skirts (interesting, by the way, shape: their front part went over the fenders), a spoiler on the trunk lid and new rims.

Koenig Mercedes-Benz 300E Turbo W124

We all idolize Koenig for totally crazy and crazy tuning projects. But there were also more standard works in the history of the company, for example, the 300E Turbo. The standard 3.0-liter engine from the 300E was turbocharged to 300 horsepower. The acceleration from 0 to 100 km / h is now 6.2 seconds, and the top speed is 265 km / h. Slightly redesigned bumpers, side skirts and Koenig branded wheels add a sporty touch to the W124's look.

Koenig Mercedes-Benz 300 CE Widebody

But this project is a little more impressive. In addition to the rather mundane sedan alterations, Koenig transformed the coupe variants into wide-bodied monsters. Twin turbocharging brought the engine power to about 345 hp. How about the size of the rear tires - 315/45 R17? Wheels are three-spoke OZ.

At that time, only AMG was engaged in the "expansion" of W124, but even they did not dare to make the appearance so extreme. Of course, such an alteration cost a lot of money, and the result was not to everyone's taste. This is probably why now such cars are considered a rarity.

Lorinser Mercedes-Benz E-class W124

Lorinser is another well-known German tuning studio that deals exclusively with Mercedes-Benz cars. In the late 80s and early 90s, they had a hand in the legendary W124. The cars modified by the company combined elegance and sportiness, and alloy wheels of the original design are still valued in the secondary market: for a not-so-killed set, they easily ask 20-25 thousand rubles.

MAE Mercedes-Benz E-classe W124

The German company MAE was primarily a manufacturer of exclusive rims. Naturally, in their arsenal there was a set of improvements for the Mercedes-Benz W124. About 6 years ago, the company began to feel feverish: it changed several owners, and now, it seems, has completely died.

Mercedes-Benz 300 CE by R Straman Company

The R Straman Company became known for its stunningly elegant conversions from coupes to convertibles. For example, Straman converted Ferrari supercars into convertibles, using the canons of the world's best coachbuilders. The cars coming out of the gates of this atelier not only looked like factory ones, but surpassed them.

The standard Mercedes-Benz E-class Cabrio looked pretty miserable with the roof up, but not the creation of the R Straman Company, the silhouette of which repeated the version with a coupe body.

Expression Motorsport Mercedes-Benz E-class W124

Belgian tuning company Expression Motorsport has decided to rely on the styling of one of the most coveted Mercedes-Benz cars - the SL Roadster. Set body parts for the W124 is inspired by the stylish roadster.

The list of parts on the atelier's website includes bumpers, hood, trunk, side skirts and fog lights. Everything is SL style. And the most interesting thing is that, most likely, you can order such a kit for yourself even now.

Renntech 600E W124

In 1990, the W124 was born with a V8 engine from the American company Renntech - model 600E. The power unit from the Mercedes-Benz 500SL R129 roadster was chosen as the basis for the engine, and all the modifications were carried out on the basis of the 300E W124.

Bringing the working volume to 6 liters, American specialists managed to raise the power from 322 hp. from the standard 5-liter engine, up to 381 hp at 5600 rpm. By the way, the engine management system was borrowed from the AMG studio. They also took a set of visual elements. The Renntech 600E accelerated to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds and reached a top speed of 250 km / h.

VH-Tuning Mercedes-Benz E-class W124

Do you know where the official VH-Tuning brochure begins? From the presentation of an unusual trunk with an integrated spoiler - the business card of the tuning studio. In addition, the W124 was equipped with SEC-style hoods and a set of aerodynamic liners called Baltimore. In addition, customers could order special wheel designs, chrome bumper elements, lowered springs and some interior improvements.

Mercedes-Benz 230 E Wasserstoffantrieb Prototype W124

In 1992, based on the Mercedes-Benz 230E, the concern made a prototype running on hydrogen. At that time, Europe was actively trying to find alternative fuel sources.

Mercedes-Benz E-class Cabrio Prototype W124

In 1992, Mercedes-Benz began mass production of a version with a convertible body. A year earlier, the company presented an interesting prototype with a spoiler over the windshield. Looks poor, doesn't it? But such designs have begun to be installed on modern convertibles of the brand!

Miesen Bonna ambulance on W124 chassis

On elongated mercedes-Benz chassis W124 versions 230E and 250D small companies (mainly in Germany) made various special versions. For example, Miesen Bonna made unusual high-roofed ambulances. In addition, very similar models were produced by Visser from the Netherlands and Binz from Lörch.

Ambulance company Binz on the chassis W124

Before the start of production of van-shaped ambulances on the extended chassis W124L, binz company produced medical vehicles based on station wagon versions and a roof height increased by half a meter.

Schulz Mercedes-Benz E-class Pullman W124

The German studio Schulz Tuning specialized in deep transformation of Mercedes-Benz cars. For example, Schulz Tuning made unique 6-door limousines based on sedans and mercedes-Benz station wagons E-class W124. These were used primarily as taxis.

Trasco Bremen Mercedes-Benz E-class W124

The name of Trasco Bremen among the car-lengthening ateliers sounds like Rolls-Royce. The cars that come out of the gates of this company are the epitome of prestige and chic. Among customers - states different countries... For example, the Trasco Bremen Mercedes-Benz W140 limousine is in the GON garage.

Mercedes-Benz E-class Limousine W124

Since May 1990, an extended sedan (800 mm large base), developed in conjunction with the Binz company, has been mass-produced, which has 6 doors and can accommodate 8 people. The elongated cars were intended as hotel cars or taxis.

Mercedes used to be associated with luxury, high cost and reliability. From the very beginning of its existence, the German brand has strived for excellence, until it finally reached it with the launch of the W124 series sedan. This model won the hearts of many car enthusiasts, both during its heyday and decades after its premiere. This car unites generations - it is driven by both those who remember its debut and those who were just born then.

Model history

The Mercedes W124 was introduced in 1985 as the successor to the famous W123 barrel. Two years later, a version with the innovative 4Matic all-wheel drive for that time appeared on sale. In 1989, the car underwent a facelift, as a result of which characteristic wide linings appeared on the doors and fenders.

In 1990, in cooperation with Porsche, sports modification Mercedes W124 with the designation 500E (eventually renamed E500), designed to compete with the BMW M5 E34.

Three years later (in 1993), the car underwent a second modernization, and its name was changed to E-Class. The production of the first generation E-Class was completed in 1995, which was replaced by the "eyepiece", aka "pop-eyed" - Mercedes W210. In total, about 2.5 million copies of the model were produced, including 340,000 station wagons.

Engines

Gasoline:

R4 2.0 (98-122 HP)

R4 2.2 (150 hp)

R4 2.3 (128-136 HP)

R6 2.6 (156-166 HP)

R6 2.8 (193 hp)

R6 3.0 (180-188 HP)

R6 3.2 (220 hp)

V8 4.2 (279 hp)

V8 5.0 (320 hp)

Diesel:

R4 2.0 (72-75 HP)

R5 2.5 (90-113 HP)

R5 2.5 T (122-126 HP)

R6 3.0 (109-136 HP)

R6 3.0 T (143-147 HP)

As you can see, the variety of power units is so great that here almost everyone will find for themselves suitable option... Which engine should you recommend? Believe it or not, in terms of reliability, everyone. However, if you want to count on good enough dynamics, then you should be interested in motors with a power of over 120 hp.

What is most often disappointing in power units? Gasoline engines are extremely reliable with a few exceptions. Diesel engines can have problems with mechanical injection, in particular with the centrifugal regulator of the fuel pump. The cost of repairing it can go up to several hundred dollars. This is one of the most expensive defects in this model.

In addition, turbochargers are sometimes annoying in diesel engines, and even then due to improper operation. The main thing before turning off the engine is to let it idle for a while, especially after long voyages on the highway or dynamic trips over short distances. Other common problems with German diesels are minor oil leaks and failure of the drive belt tensioner.

With high mileage, starting problems arise, especially in winter conditions. If the issue of replacing the battery and glow plugs cannot be resolved, then the compression ratio will need to be measured. With low values \u200b\u200bof the parameter, engine overhaul cannot be avoided.

The 2-liter gasoline engine was equipped with a carburetor until 1988, and in the following years it was abandoned in favor of KE-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection. This increased the power from 118 to 122 hp. Typical disadvantages gasoline engines 2.8 and 3.2 liters - breakdown of the block head gasket. In 2-liter engines, marked with the M102 symbol, you can encounter problems associated with the timing chain, which in extreme cases can even break.

The rest of the gasoline units were also equipped with KE-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection, and since the end of 1992 - multi-point injection. The V8 M119 with a volume of 4.0 l, 4.2 and 5.0 l was equipped with LH-Jetronic injection from the very beginning.

Among the diesel range, mechanics recommend the 300D version with a six-cylinder block. The presence of turbocharging can be identified by the additional air intake on the right wing. The 3-liter turbodiesel (ОМ603) is good in terms of dynamics, but it consumes more than 10 liters of fuel per 100 km in the city. In addition, its head is very sensitive to overheating.

The 200D (OM601) is practically no problem, but 72 hp. allow you to feel more or less comfortable only on city streets. The power reserve is too low on the highway.

The 5-cylinder 2.5-liter diesel engine (OM602) was also recognized among the owners. It can also be naturally aspirated or turbocharged. The engine is characterized by a simple design and a robust mechanical part. However, the 2.5 TD is prone to excessive oil consumption, and after 1993, the injection pump control electronics began to fail.

The strong point of the Mercedes diesel engines of this model is very simple system fuel supply, based on a classic high-pressure fuel pump of a simple design. Unlike modern nozzles, this solution is more tolerant to diesel fuel Low quality.

Design features

The Mercedes-Benz W124 can be either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive with the electronically controlled 4Matic system, developed in collaboration with the Austrian company Steyr-Daimler-Puch. The system is based on a central differential with a hydraulically controlled multi-plate clutch.

The model received three gearboxes: 5-speed mechanics, 4 and 5-speed automatic. The suspension, both front and rear, is independent. The W124 is stable on a straight line, confidently passes corners and perfectly smooths out irregularities.

The Mercedes 124 was available in 5 body styles: sedan, station wagon, coupe, convertible and long "long".

Many cars with small engines from the early production period are poorly equipped. ABS became standard only in the middle of 1988. The first restyling helped a little. The real breakthrough came in 1993 when the W124 received the designation E-class. It was then that the air conditioner, the complete "electric package" and other systems appeared.

Typical problems and malfunctions

Contrary to popular belief, the Mercedes Benz W124 is almost an ideal car in terms of reliability. Many copies, even with diesel engines passed more than 1,000,000 km without serious problems. But, unfortunately, age takes its toll, and ailments are more common today.

The most weak point The first examples of W124 are corrosion, which appears on wheel arches, sills, at the bottom of the doors, in the area of \u200b\u200bmoldings (linings) and the antenna, as well as on the trunk lid. The reason is the absence of any galvanizing of the body and the abandonment of traditional varnishes in 1989 in favor of more environmentally friendly ones. Therefore, samples of the initial production period are more resistant to corrosion.

Another common drawback is oil leaks from the gearbox, valve cover and rear axle. Sometimes the differential starts to make noise, and play appears in the transmission. With high mileage, the engine mountings and the propeller shaft support are rented. As for the suspension, it is necessary to regularly check the ball, which can pull out with a lot of wear.

In addition, there are problems with the central locking - due to a malfunction of a special pneumatic pump. Of the minor flaws, we can mention the jamming of the driver's seat movement mechanism. Impeccable interior is rented with age. The leather upholstery of the seats and steering wheel deteriorates.

Of the "automatic machines" the most reliable is the 4-speed one, which, with regular maintenance, is capable of passing 800-900 thousand km without repair.

Conclusion

Mercedes 124 is the choice of those who appreciate good dynamics, high comfort, excellent quality of interior trim, reliability and simple classic German style. Another advantage of the model is readily available and inexpensive spare parts. But, unfortunately, today it is extremely difficult to find a well-maintained Mercedes W124.