W114/115
The Mercedes Benz W114 and W115 models are a series of coupes and sedans introduced in 1968 by Mercedes Benz, manufactured through model year 1976, and distinguished in the marketplace by nameplates designating their engines.
W114 models featured 6 cylinder engines and were marketed as the 230, 250, and 280, while W115 models featured 4 cylinder engines and were marketed as the 200, 220, 230, and 240. All were styled by Paul Bracq, featuring a three box design. At the time, Mercedes marketed sedans in two size classes, with the W114/W115, positioned below the Mercedes Benz S-Class. Beginning in 1968, Mercedes marketed their model range as New Generation Models, giving their ID plates the designation '/8' (due to their 1968 Launch year). Because they were the only truly new cars of the so-called 'New Generation' and because of the '/8' or 'slash eight' designation, W114 and W115 models ultimately received the German nickname Strich Acht, loosely translated into the English Slash Eight.
he W114/W115 models were the first post-war Mercedes Benz production car to use a newly engineered chassis, not derived from preceding models. The new chassis format of semi-trailing rear arms and ball-joint front end, first displayed in the W114/W115 chassis would be used in all new Mercedes passenger car models until the development of the multi-link rear suspensions of the 1980s. The W108/109 S-Class chassis of the 280 S/8, 280 SE/8 and 300SEL/8 (and W113 280 SL Pagoda) would be the last of the low-pivot swing axle and king pin/double wishbone front ends. The next S-Class -the W116 chassis having the same engineering of the W114/115.
The W114/W115 models replaced the W110 Fintail models stemming from 1961, and were themselves replaced by the W123 series after 1976.
The Mercedes Benz W114/W115 was the mid sized saloon model for Mercedes, positioned below the S-Class. Mercedes also launched its first 5 cylinder diesel engine OM617 in this chassis. It followed heavily in the direction set by the W108/109 S-class, which was launched in 1965 and heralded the new design idiom. The car was designed by French auto designer Paul Bracq who was chief designer at Mercedes Benz for models from 1957 to 1967, a period that included models such as the Grosser Mercedes Benz 600. Bracq was also responsible for BMW designs (1970–74) and Peugeot designs (1974–96).
Mercedes introduced a coupé variant of the W114 in 1969, featuring a longer boot hood and available with either a 2.5 or 2.8 L 6 cylinder engine. While a classic and understated design these generally cost less than the W113-based 280 SL model that ran through 1971, and its successor, the 3.5 or 4.5 L V8 Mercedes SL R107/C107 (1971–1989) roadster and coupé. While a 'hard top' unlike the fully convertible SL, the pillarless design allowed all the windows to be lowered completely for open air motoring. Only 67,048 coupés were manufactured from 1969 to 1976 (vs. 1852008 saloons). Of these 24669 were 280C and 280CE (top of the range), and 42,379 were the lesser 250C and 250CE.
The W114 received a facelift in 1973 - with a lower bonnet-line, lower and broader grill, a single front bumper to replace the double bumpers, lower placement of the headlamps, A-pillar treatment for keeping the side windows clear, removal of the quarter windows in the front doors, ribbed tail lights to minimize occlusion of the tail lights with road dirt, and larger side mirrors. The interior received inertia reel belts and a new padded steering wheel with a four hole design.
The Mercedes Benz W115 in known to be a very durable car. In 2004 a Greek taxi driver donated his 1976 Mercedes Benz 240 D to the Mercedes Benz Museum Collection with 4.6 million kilometers on the odometer, which is recognised as the Mercedes Benz with the highest recorded mileage known to date.
Innovations:
Like its saloon variant this car also boasted advanced technological innovations. 1969 saw the introduction of the Bosch D-jetronic fully electronic fuel injection system into the 250CE. This was the first ever production Mercedes Benz to use this system.
Other innovations in the W114/W115 models include a center console (a first in a Mercedes sedan), ribbed taillights in 1974. All coupe models used the 6 cylinder engine (and thus were W114s) and were designated with a "C" in the model name.
A Mercedes Benz 220D pickup on the W115 chassis was built briefly in Argentina in the 1970s.
North America:
The W114/W115 was introduced in North America in 1968, but with fewer engine choices than elsewhere. These models from the start had unique headlights, utilizing a sealed beam lamp instead of the H4 type used in the European models. Bumpers changed frequently and there were at least three different bumpers used over the production run in NA. For 1974 the bumpers grew significantly due to new DOT requirements.
North American 240Ds were offered with a 4 speed manual or 4 speed automatic, whereas all 5 cylinder 300D models were equipped with the 4 speed automatic without a manual option.
Models
W114
Chassis code | Years | Model | Engine | Number built | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Displacement | Model | Type | ||||
W114.015 | 1968–1973 | 230 | 2.3 L | M180 | inline 6 | 152822 |
W114.615 | 1973–1976 | 230.6 | 2.3 L | M180 | inline 6 | 63497 |
W114.010 | 1968–1970 | 250 | 2.5 L | M114 | inline 6 | 78303 |
W114.011 | 1970–1973 | 250 | 2.8 L | M130 | inline 6 | 22624 |
W114.611 | 1973–1976 | 250 | 2.8 L | M130 | inline 6 | 11437 |
W114.021 | 1968–1972 | 250C | 2.5 L | M114 | inline 6 | 8824 |
W114.022 | 1968–1972 | 250CE | 2.5 L | M114 | inline 6 | 21787 |
W114.023 | 1969–1973 | 250C | 2.8 L | M130 | inline 6 | 10527 |
W114.623 | 1973–1976 | 250C | 2.8 L | M130 | inline 6 | 1241 |
W114.060 | 1972–1973 | 280 | 2.8 L | M110 | inline 6 | 19537 |
W114.660 | 1973–1976 | 280 | 2.8 L | M110 | inline 6 | 25000 |
W114.062 | 1972–1973 | 280E | 2.8 L | M110 | inline 6 | 13711 |
W114.662 | 1973–1976 | 280/E | 2.8 L | M110 | inline 6 | 9125 |
W114.072 | 1972–1973 | 280CE | 2.8 L | M110 | inline 6 | 7576 |
W114.672 | 1973–1976 | 280CE | 2.8 L | M110 | inline 6 | 3942 |
W114.073 | 1972–1973 | 280C | 2.8 L | M110 | inline 6 | 4924 |
W114.673 | 1973–1976 | 280C | 2.8 L | M110 | inline 6 | 8227 |
W115
Chassis code | Years | Model | Engine | Number built | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Displacement | Model | Type | ||||
W115.015 | 1968–1973 | 200 | 2.0 L | M115 | inline 4 | 175242 |
W115.615 | 1973–1976 | 200 | 2.0 L | M115 | inline 4 | 113543 |
W115.115 | 1968–1973 | 200D | 2.0 L | OM615 | Diesel inline 4 | 187873 |
W115.715 | 1973–1976 | 200D | 2.0 L | OM615 | Diesel inline 4 | 152054 |
W115.010 | 1968–1973 | 220 | 2.2 L | M115 | inline 4 | 128398 |
W115.110 | 1968–1973 | 220D | 2.2 L | OM615 | Diesel inline 4 | 345376 |
W115.710 | 1973–1976 | 220D | 2.2 L | OM615 | Diesel inline 4 | 67453 |
W115.017 | 1973–1976 | 230.4 | 2.3 L | M115 | inline 4 | 87609 |
W115.117 | 1973–1976 | 240D | 2.4 L | OM616 | Diesel inline 4 | 126148 |
W115.114 | 1974–1976 | 240D 3.0/300D | 3.0 L | OM617 | Diesel inline 5 | 53690 |
W114 & W115 long wheelbase models
Chassis code | Years | Model | Engine | Number built. | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Displacement | Model | Type | ||||
W114.017 | 1968–1973 | 230 Lang (LWB saloon) | 2.3 L | M180 | inline 6 | 1082 |
W114.617 | 1968–1973 | 230.6 Lang (LWB saloon) | 2.3 L | M180 | inline 6 | 1131 |
W115.112 | 1968–1973 | 220D Lang (LWB saloon) | 2.2 L | OM615 | Diesel inline 4 | 4027 |
W115.119 | 1973–1976 | 240D Lang (LWB saloon) | 2.4 L | OM616 | Diesel inline 4 | 3655 |
W115 Sedan |
1969 W115 Sedan |
W115 CE Coupe |
Long Wheelbase version |
W123
The W123 models surpassed their predecessor, the W114 and W115 models, as the most successful Mercedes, selling 2.7 million cars before replacement by the W124 after 1985. The additional range of smaller Mercedes Benz W201 models were introduced in 1982.
Naming:
As usual, model names were related to engine sizes, type of engine and chassis type:
C: for Coupé
T: for Touring (estate/station wagon)
The long wheelbase model was simply called "Lang" (long)
D: for Diesel,
E: for Einspritzung (fuel injection)
As for the chassis codes, W123 is the regular sedan, S123 the estate, C123 the coupé, V123 the Lang, and F123 for the bare chassis as used for ambulances and other conversions.
Model history:
Mercedes Benz introduced the W123 four door versions in January, 1976. While there were some technical similarities to their predecessors, the new models were larger in wheelbase and exterior dimensions. The styling was also updated, although stylistic links with the W114 / W115 were maintained. Initially, all models except 280/280E featured quad unequal size round headlights and the latter large rectangular units. When facelifted these units became standard across the range. All W115 engines were carried over, with the 3 L 5 cylinder diesel model being renamed from "240D 3.0" to "300D" (as it had already been called before in North American markets). The only new engine was the 250's 2525 cm3 inline 6 (Type M123, a short stroke version of the 2.8 L six Type M110) that replaced the old 2496 cm3 Type M114 "six".
In the spring of 1976, a coupé version was introduced on a shorter wheelbase than the saloon (2710 mm (106.7 in) versus 2795 mm (110.0 in)) for the saloon). This W123 C/CE was available as a 230 C (later 230 CE) and as a 280 C/CE in most markets; in North America there were additional 300 CD versions with naturally aspirated, later turbocharged 3 L diesel engines.
It is a tribute to the car's instant popularity – and possibly to the caution built into the production schedules – that nine months after its introduction, a black market had developed in Germany for Mercedes Benz W123s available for immediate delivery. Customers willing to order new cars from their local authorized dealer for the recommended list price faced waiting times in excess of twelve months. Meanwhile, models that were barely used and were available almost immediately commanded a premium over the new price of around DM 5000.
From August 1977, long wheelbase versions (3425 mm (134.8 in)) were produced. These were available as 7/8 seater saloons with works bodies or as a chassis with complete front body clip, the latter serving as the base for ambulance and hearse bodies by external suppliers like Binz or Miesen. These "Lang" versions could be ordered as 240 D, 300 D and 250 models.
At the Frankfurt Auto Show in September, 1977 the W123 T estate was introduced; the T in the model designation stood for "Touring and Transport". All engines derivative except "200 TD" were available in the range. T production began in March, 1978 in Mercedes' Bremen factory.
In early 1979, the diesel models power output was increased; power rose from 54 HP to 60 HP in the 200 D, from 65 HP to 72 HP in the 240D and from 80 HP to 88 HP in the 300 D; at the same time, the 220 D went out of production.
The first Mercedes turbo diesel production W123 appeared in September, 1979. This was the 300 TD Turbodiesel, available with automatic transmission only. In most markets, the turbocharged 5 cylinder 3 L diesel engine (Type OM617) was offered only in the T body style, while in North America it was also available in saloon and coupé guises.
June 1980 saw the introduction of new 4 cylinder petrol engines (Type M102). A new 2 litre four with shorter stroke replaced the old M115, a fuel injected 2.3 litre version of this engine (in 230 E/TE/CE) the old carbureted 230. Both engines were more powerful than their predecessors.
In 1980/81 the carbureted 280 versions went out of production; the fuel injected 280E continued to be offered.
In September 1982 all models received a mild facelift. The rectangular headlights, previously fitted only to the 280/280 E, were standardized across the board, as was power steering. Since February 1982 an optional 5 speed manual transmission was available in all models (except the automatic-only 300 turbodiesel).
W123 production ended in January, 1986 with 63 final T-models rolling out. Most popular single models were the 240 D (455000 built), the 230 E (442000 built), and the 200 D (378000 built).
W123 introduced innovations including ABS (optional from August, 1980), a retractable steering column and an airbag for the driver (optional from 1982). Power (vacuum servo) assisted disc brakes were standard on all W123s. Available options included MB-Tex (Mercedes Benz Texturized Punctured Vinyl) upholstery or velour or leather upholstery, interior wood trim, passenger side exterior mirror (standard on T models), 5 speed manual transmission (European market only), 4 speed automatic transmission (standard in turbodiesel models), power windows with rear seat switch cut outs, vacuum powered central locking, rear facing extra seats (station wagon only), Standheizung (prestart timer-controlled engine heating), self-locking differential, sun roof, air conditioning, climate control, "Alpine" horn (selectable quieter horn), headlamp wipers (European market only), Tempomat (cruise control), power steering (standard after 1982/08), seat heating, catalytic converter (available from 1984 for California only, from fall (autumn) 1984 also in Germany for the 230 E of which one thousand were built).
Models (except North America and Japan)
Chassis code | Years | Model | Engine | Power | Torque |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
W123.020 | 1976–1981 | 200 | 2.0 L M115 inline 4 | 94 HP @ 4800 | 158 NM (117 lb·ft) @ 3000 |
W123.220 | 1979–1985 | 200 | 2.0 L M102 inline 4 | 109 HP @ 5200 | 170 NM (125 lb·ft) @ 3000 |
W123.280 | 1980–1985 | 200 T | |||
W123.120 | 1976–1979 | 200 D | 2.0 L OM615 inline 4 diesel | 55 HP @ 4200 | 113 NM (83 lb·ft) @ 2400 |
W123.120 | 1979–1985 | 200 D | 60 HP @ 4400 | 113 NM (83 lb·ft) @ 2400 | |
W123.126 | 1976–1979 | 220 D | 2.2 L OM615 inline 4 diesel | 60 HP @ 4200 | 125 NM (92 lb·ft) @ 2400 |
W123.023 | 1975–1981 | 230 | 2.3 L M115 inline 4 | 109 HP @ 4800 | 185 NM (136 lb·ft) @ 3000 |
W123.223 | 1979–1985 | 230 E | 2.3 L M102 inline 4 | 136 HP @ 5100 | 201 NM (148 lb·ft) @ 3500 |
W123.043 | 1977–1980 | 230 C | 2.3 L M115 inline 4 | 109 HP @ 4800 | 185 NM (136 lb·ft) @ 3000 |
W123.243 | 1980–1985 | 230 CE | 2.3 L M102 inline 4 | 136 HP @ 5100 | 201 NM (148 lb·ft) @ 3500 |
W123.083 | 1978–1980 | 230 T | 2.3 L M115 inline 4 | 109 HP @ 4800 | 185 NM (136 lb·ft) @ 3000 |
W123.283 | 1980–1985 | 230 TE | 2.3 L M102 inline 4 | 136 HP @ 5100 | 201 NM (148 lb·ft) @ 3500 |
W123.123 | 1976–1985 | 240 D | 2.4 L OM616 inline 4 diesel | 65 HP @ 4200 from 02/79: 71 HP @ 4400 | 137 NM (101 lb·ft) @ 2400 |
W123.125 | 1977–1985 | 240 D Lang | |||
W123.183 | 1978–1986 | 240 TD | |||
W123.026 | 1975–1985 | 250 | 2.5 L M123 inline 6 | 129 HP @ 5500 from 09/79: 140 HP@ 5500 | 192 NM (142 lb·ft) @ 3500 from 09/79: 196 NM (145 lb·ft) @ 3500 |
W123.028 | 1977–1985 | 250 Lang | |||
W123.086 | 1978–1985 | 250 T | |||
W123.030 | 1975–1981 | 280 | 2.8 L M110 inline 6 | 156 HP @ 5500 | 222 NM (164 lb·ft) @ 4000 |
W123.033 | 1975–1985 | 280 E | 177 HP @ 6000 from 1978: 185 HP @ 5800 | 229 NM (169 lb·ft) @ 4500 from 09/79: 235 NM (173 lb·ft) @ 4500 | |
W123.050 | 1977–1980 | 280 C | 156 HP @ 5500 | 222 N·m (164 lb·ft) @ 4000 | |
W123.053 | 1977–1985 | 280 CE | 177 HP @ 6000 from 1978: 185 HP @ 5800 | 229 NM (169 lb·ft) @ 4500 from 09/79: 235 NM (173 lb·ft) @ 4500 | |
W123.093 | 1978–1985 | 280 TE | |||
W123.130 | 1976–1985 | 300 D | 3.0 L OM617 inline 5 diesel | 80 HP @ 4000 from 09/79: 88 HP @ 4400 | 169 NM (125 lb·ft) @ 2400 |
W123.132 | 1977–1985 | 300 D Lang | |||
W123.133 | 1981–1985 | 300 D Turbo | 3.0 L OM617 A inline 5 turbodiesel | 125 HP @ 4350 | 245 NM (181 lb·ft) at 2400 |
W123.150 | 1977–1981 | 300 CD | 3.0 L OM617 Iinline diesel | 80 HP @ 4000 from 09/79: 88 HP @ 4400 | 169 NM (125 lb·ft) @ 2400 |
W123.153 | 1981–1985 | 300 CD Turbo | 3.0 L OM617 A inline 5 turbodiesel | 125 HP @ 4350 | 245 NM (181 lb·ft) @ 2400 |
W123.190 | 1978–1985 | 300 TD | 3.0 L OM617 inline 5 diesel | 80 HP @ 4000 from 09/79: 88 HP @ 4400 | 169 NM (125 lb·ft) @ 2400 |
W123.193 | 1980–1985 | 300 TD Turbo | 3.0 L OM617 A inline 5 turbodiesel | 125 HP @ 4350 | 245 NM (181 lb·ft) @ 2400 |
North America and Japan
Model | Years | Engine | Power | Torque |
---|---|---|---|---|
230 | MY 1977–1978 | M115 | 93.0 HP @ 4800 | 125 lb·ft (169 NM) @ 2500 (USA-Canada only ) |
240 D | MY 1977–1983 | OM616.912 | 62 HP @ 4000 from MY 1981 67 HP @ 4000 | 97 lb·ft (132 NM) @ 2400 (USA-Canada only) |
280 E | MY 1977–1981 | M110 | 142 HP @ 5750 from MY 1980: 140 HP @ 5500 | 149 lb·ft (202 NM) @ 4600 from MY 1980: 145 lb·ft (197 N·m) @ 4600 (USA-Canada only) |
280 CE | MY 1978–1981 | M110 | 142 HP @ 5750 from MY 1980: 140HP @ 5500 | 149 lb·ft (202 NM) @ 4600 from MY 1980: 145 lb·ft (197 N·m) @ 4600 (USA-Canada only) |
300 D | MY 1977–1981 | OM617.912 | 77 HP @ 4000 from MY 1981: 83 HP @ 4200 | 115 lb·ft (156 NM) @ 2400 from MY 1981: 120 lb·ft (163 N·m) @ 2400 (USA-Canada) |
300 CD | MY 1978–1981 | OM617.912 | 77 HP @ 4000 from MY 1981: 83 HP @ 4200 | 115 lb·ft (156 NM) @ 2400 from MY 1981: 120 lb·ft (163 N·m) @ 2400 (USA-Canada only) |
300 TD | MY 1979–1980 | OM617.912 | 77 HP @ 4000 | 115 lb·ft (156 NM) @ 2400 (USA-Canada only) |
300 D Turbo Diesel | MY 1981–1985 | OM617.952 | 125 HP @ 4350 | 181 lb·ft (245 NM) @ 2400 (USA-Canada, Japan only) |
300 CD Turbo Diesel | MY 1981–1985 | OM617.952 | 125 HP @ 4350 | 181 lb·ft (245 NM) @ 2400 (USA-Canada only) |
300 TD Turbo Diesel | MY 1981–1985 | OM617.952 | 125 HP @ 4350 | 181 lb·ft (245 NM) @ 2400 (USA-Canada only) |
From 1982 until the W123's replacement in late 1985, only diesels were sold in North America. The federalized W123s differ from the European W123s due to United States Department of Transportation requirements.
The naturally aspirated 300 TD wagon only had a brief career in North America, being replaced by a turbocharged model for the 1981 model year. Most American buyers had found the heavy wagon much to slow with the less powerful engine. The turbodiesel engine also appeared in the sedan and coupé models in America, but only a few months behind the wagon. Manual transmissions were generally only available to North American buyers in the 4 cylinder models, and a 5 speed was never available.
Notable exterior differences included:
-Larger bumpers
-Round, sealed-beam headlights/fog lamps. Early cars were delivered with clear fog lamps through to model year 1979, later units with yellow
-Location of ID-tag on A-pillar
-Emission control devices
W123 Sedan EU spec |
W123 Sedan US spec |
W123 T-Model |
W123 CE Coupe |
W124
In North America, the W124 was sold for the 1985 through to 1996 model years.
History:
The W124 is a mid sized vehicle platform. Due to the high cost of German engineering and build quality, the W124 was designed to last many miles, with awards actually given and worn by high mileage versions.
Front suspension uses a separate spring and damper with a rubber top mount. The rear suspension of the W124 features the Mercedes multi link axle introduced in 1982 with the Mercedes 190 and which is now standard on many modern cars. Estate cars (and optionally, saloons and coupes) had Citroen like self leveling rear suspension with suspension struts rather than shock absorbers, gas filled suspension spheres to provide damping and an under bonnet pressurizing pump. Unlike the traditional Citroën application Mercedes opted for a fixed ride height and employed rear coil springs to maintain the static ride height when parked.
The R129 SL roadster was based on the W124 platform, and in return, W124 was equipped with one of the roadster's engines, which comprised the 500 E.
Much of the 124's engineering and many of its features were advanced automotive technology at its introduction, incorporating innovations that have been adopted throughout the industry. It had one of the lowest coefficient of drag (Cd) of any vehicle of the time (0.28 for the 200/200D model for the European market with 185/65 R15 tires) due to its aerodynamic body, that included plastic molding for the undercarriage to streamline airflow beneath the car, reducing fuel consumption and wind noise. It had a single windscreen wiper that had an eccentric mechanism at its base that extended the wiper's reach to the top corners of the windscreen (more than if it had traveled in a simple arc). The saloon/sedan, coupés and convertibles had optional rear headrests that would fold down remotely to improve rearward visibility when required. This feature was not available for the T-model because of its specific layout (no space to store the retractable headrests), but the station wagon serially came with a "neighbour friendly" rear door that was pulled in the shut position silently and automatically by a sensor controlled servomotor. With the exception of the 200, which was equipped with a Stromberg or Pierburg carburetor but was not available to the United States, fuel injection was standard, and the engines incorporated features that maximised performance. The most notable such feature was the addition of an oxygen sensor in the exhaust system which, in conjunction with a semi-electronic fuel injection system, could make the engine run more efficiently. This improved fuel consumption while simultaneously meeting stricter emission regulations. Mercedes Benz's four wheel drive system, the 4Matic was first introduced on the W124 in 1986.
The estate cars (chassis designation S124) came in 5 or 7 seat models, the 7 seater having a rear facing bench seat that folded flush luggage compartment cover and an optional (in the US until 1994) retractable cargo net. In the US 7 seat models were standard, 5 seat models were not available. The S124 estate continued in production alongside the new W210 until the S210 estate launched more than a year later. A two door coupe version was also built, with the chassis designation C124.
Mercedes launched a cabriolet (convertible) version in Europe in 1991, the 300 CE-24 cabriolet, and in the UK (RHD) and Japan (LHD). The 320 CE, and North America, the 300 CE, in 1992. These versions were re-designated as the E320 in 1993, complemented by the less powerful, but less expensive E 220 in 1993, and the mainland Europe-only E 200 in 1994. Mercedes brought the E 320 cabriolet (convertible) to the USA and Japan from 1993 to 1995. There were 68 E 36 AMG cabriolets built from 1993 until 1996 (54 LHD and 14 RHD) to complement the also rare E 36 AMG coupe, saloon (RHD only) and estate. The pre merger AMG coupés are based on the 124 series 2 update . The AMG 3.4 CE (300CE-24 based coupé) are all LHD, 25 were produced from 1988 until 1993.
The E 320, E 220, and E 200 cabriolets ceased production in 1997. Indian assembly (in a joint venture with Telco called Mercedes Benz India) began in March 1995. Offered with 4 cylinder diesel engines built by Mercedes' Indian partner Bajaj Tempo, the W124 was replaced there in December 1997.
Local manufacture in Indonesia are known to continue production of the W124 until 2000 despite the W210 was already introduced in late 1996, making it the last country to locally produce the car since its worldwide discontinuation in 1995. At this time, only two variants were offered; the E220 and E320 (the other variants were discontinued in 1996).
SsangYong Motor Company of Korea licensed the W124 design and continues to produce a stretched version of the W124 as the Chairman, with a Ssangyong badge. It has a 2.9 m (110 in) wheelbase and 3.2 L Mercedes inline 6 M104 engine. Chairman currently has 2.3 L (M111), 2.8 L (M104), and 3.2 L (M104) engines in its product line ups. SsangYong Chairman has developed a 3.6 L version of M104 engine recently for its high end Chairman line up. The engine is called XGi360.
Models:
The pre-facelift models from 1984 to 1993 used the model designations: 200/200 T (carburettor), 200 E/200 TE, 230 E/230 TE, 230 CE, 260 E (saloon only), 300 E/TE, 300 E-24/300 TE-24 valve, 400 E (not in the UK), & 500 E (LHD only in the UK). Diesels were the 200 D/200 TD (not in the UK), 250 D/250 TD & the 300 D/300 TD. Facelift models produced from 1993 to 1996 used the model designations: E 200, E 220, E 280, E 320, E 420 (not in the UK) & E 500 (LHD only in the UK). Both saloon and estate versions of the facelifted model carried the same model designation on their bootlid, i.e. the T was no longer used for estate versions. In the UK post-facelift diesels were E 250 Diesel (saloon only) and E300 Diesel (saloon & estate) models. The W124 was also offered as a long wheelbase targeted for taxi companies, but more luxury equipped version was also used as a limousine.
Chassis code | Years | Model | Engine | Body style |
---|---|---|---|---|
124.019 | 1993–1994 | 200E | 2.0 L M111.940 I4 | Sedan |
1994–1996 | E200 | |||
124.020 | 1984–1992 | 200 | 2.0 L M102.922 I4 | Sedan |
124.021 | 1984–1992 | 200E | 2.0 L M102.963 I4 | Sedan |
124.022 | 1993–1994 | 220E | 2.2 L M111.960 I4 | Sedan |
1994–1996 | E220 | |||
124.023 | 1984–1992 | 230E | 2.3 L M102.982 I4 | Sedan |
124.026 | 1987–1990 | 260E | 2.6 L M103.940 I6 | Sedan |
1990–1992 | 300E 2.6 | |||
124.028 | 1993–1994 | 280E, 300E 2.8 | 2.8 L M104.942 I6 | Sedan |
1994–1996 | E280 | |||
124.030 | 1986–1992 | 300E | 3.0 L M103.983 I6 | Sedan |
124.031 | 1990–1993 | 300E-24 | 3.0 L M104.980 I6 | Sedan |
124.032 | 1993–1994 | 300E | 3.2 L M104.992 I6 | Sedan |
1994–1996 | E320 | |||
124.034 | 1992–1993 | 400E | 4.2 L M119.975 V8 | Sedan |
1994–1996 | E420 | |||
124.036 | 1991–1993 | 500E | 5.0 L M119.974 V8 | Sedan |
1994 | E500 | |||
124.036 (option 957) | 1993–1994 | E60 AMG | 6.0 L M119 E60 V8 | Sedan |
124.120 | 1986–1989 | 200D | 2.0 L OM601.912 Diesel I4 | Sedan |
124.125 | 1986–1989 | 250D | 2.5 L OM602.912 Diesel I5 | Sedan |
124.126 | 1993–1996 | E250 Diesel | 2.5 L OM605.911 Diesel I5 | Sedan |
124.128 | 1990–1993 | 250D Turbo, 300D 2.5 Turbo | 2.5 L OM602.962 Turbo Diesel I5 | Sedan |
124.130 | 1986–1993 | 300D | 3.0 L OM603.912 Diesel I6 | Sedan |
124.131 | 1994–1996 | E300 Diesel | 3.0 L OM606.910 Diesel I6 | Sedan |
124.133 | 1987–1993 | 300D Turbo | 3.0 L OM603.960 Turbo Diesel I6 | Sedan |
124.226 | 1986–1993 | 260E 4Matic | 2.6 L M103.943 I6 | Sedan |
124.230 | 1986–1993 | 300E 4Matic | 3.0 L M103.985 I6 | Sedan |
124.330 | 1986–1993 | 300D 4Matic | 3.0 L OM603.913 I6 | Sedan |
124.040 | 1993–1994 | 200CE | 2.0 L M111.940 I4 | Coupe |
1994–1996 | E200 | |||
124.042 | 1993–1994 | 220CE | 2.2 L M111.960 I4 | Coupe |
1994–1996 | E220 | |||
124.043 | 1984–1992 | 230CE | 2.3 L M102.982 I4 | Coupe |
124.050 | 1988–1989 | 300CE | 3.0 L M103.983 I6 | Coupe |
124.051 | 1990–1993 | 300CE-24 | 3.0 L M104.980 I6 | Coupe |
124.052 | 1993–1994 | 300CE | 3.2 L M104.992 I6 | Coupe |
1994–1996 | E320 | |||
124.060 | 1993–1994 | 200CE | 2.0 L M111.940 I4 | Cabriolet |
1994–1996 | E200 | |||
124.061 | 1990–1993 | 300CE-24 | 3.0 L M104.980 I6 | Cabriolet |
124.062 | 1993–1994 | 220CE | 2.2 L M111.960 I4 | Cabriolet |
1994–1996 | E220 | |||
124.066 | 1993–1994 | 300CE | 3.2 L M104.992 I6 | Cabriolet |
1994–1996 | E320 | |||
124.079 | 1993–1994 | 200TE | 2.0 L M111.940 I4 | Estate |
1994–1996 | E200 | |||
124.080 | 1988–1993 | 200T | 2.0 L M102.922 I4 | Estate |
124.081 | 1988–1993 | 200TE | 2.0 L M102.963 I4 | Estate |
124.082 | 1993–1996 | E220 | 2.2 L M111.960 I4 | Estate |
124.083 | 1988–1992 | 230TE | 2.3 L M102.982 I4 | Estate |
124.088 | 1993–1994 | 280TE, 300TE 2.8 | 2.8 L M104.942 I6 | Estate |
1994–1996 | E280 | |||
124.090 | 1988–1991 | 300TE | 3.0 L M103.983 I6 | Estate |
124.091 | 1989–1992 | 300TE-24 | 3.0 L M104.980 I6 | Estate |
124.290 | 1986–1993 | 300TE 4Matic | 3.0 L M103.985 I6 | Estate |
124.092 | 1993–1994 | 300TE | 3.2 L M104.992 I6 | Estate |
1994–1996 | E320 | |||
124.180 | 1986–1989 | 200TD | 2.0 L OM601.912 Diesel I4 | Estate |
124.185 | 1986–1989 | 250TD | 2.5 L OM602.912 Diesel I5 | Estate |
Dimensions and weight
Body style | Wheelbase | Length | Width | Height | Curb weight |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sedan | 2800 mm (110.2 in) | 4740 mm (186.6 in) | 1740 mm (68.5 in) | 1428 mm (56.2 in) 1451 mm (57.1 in) (4Matic) | 1,390 kg (3,064 lb) |
Sedan LWB | 3600 mm (141.7 in) | 5540 mm (218.1 in) | 1740 mm (68.5 in) | 1480 mm (58.3 in) | 1,635 kg (3,605 lb) |
Estate | 2800 mm (110.2 in) | 4765 mm (187.6 in) | 1740 mm (68.5 in) | 1489 mm (58.6 in) 1498 mm (59.0 in) (4Matic) | 1,510 kg (3,329 lb) |
Coupe | 2715 mm (106.9 in) | 4655 mm (183.3 in) | 1740 mm (68.5 in) | 1394 mm (54.9 in) 1391 mm (54.8 in) (convertible) | 1,630 kg (3,594 lb) |
500 E | 2800 mm (110.2 in) | 4750 mm (187.0 in) | 1796 mm (70.7 in) | 1410 mm (55.5 in) | 1,710 kg (3,770 lb) |
Mercedes Benz offered an option called "Sportline" for the W124 and W201 chassis cars. This option was available in the North American market for the 1992–93 model year 190 E 2.6, 1992–93 300 E/300 CE and 1993–95 E 320/E 320 Coupe. In the European market, however, the "Sportline" option was available for all body styles except the E 500/500 E, all of which came standard with the Sportline package and every option. The package included sport seating (sedans, not coupes), wider wheels (7" rather than 6.5") and lower profile tyres (205/60 x 15 rather than 195/65 x 15), quick ratio steering and a smaller diameter steering wheel, "Sportline" badges on the front wing moldings and gear knob, a slightly lowered ride height and a specially tuned suspension including shorter, stiffer springs, struts, anti-roll bars, and bushings.
The suspension components of the Sportline package were available as an option on all cars, including estates, as Option 653 – Sports Chassis with 8 Hole light alloy rims.
500 E:
Mercedes also included a high performance version of the W124, the 500 E, created in close cooperation with and assembled by Porsche. It used the 5.0 L 32 valve V8 M119 Engine based upon the 500 SL (R129) roadster, and Porsche engineered the suspension and chassis design with a performance bias.
Masterpiece:
In some countries, the final batch of W124 was sold as the limited edition Masterpiece in 1995. Following the impending release of its successor, the Mercedes Benz W210, the remaining units of W124 were fitted with additional accessories found in stock models such as walnut steering wheel (optional), airbag for front passenger, walnut center console glove box, electric rear blind and rear seat side window sunshade (optional). There were also 4 unique pieces of accessories fitted to Masterpieces which were not available to any other W124 around the world – gear knob engraved with the word Masterpiece, stainless door sills engraved with Mercedes Benz, Masterpiece label on the right side of the boot and the brand new 6 hole very light alloy wheels.
Engines
Engine | Cyl. | Power | Torque | 0–100 km/h (sec.) | Maximum speed | Fuel consumption (Euro mix) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Gasoline | ||||||
2.0 8V | inline 4 | 105 HP | 160 NM (118 lb·ft) | 12.6 | 187 km/h (116 mph) | |
2.0 8V | inline 4 | 109 HP | 170 NM (125 lb·ft) | |||
2.0 8V | inline 4 | 118 HP | 172 NM (127 lb·ft) | 12.0–14.0 | 175–190 km/h | 8.6 L/100 km (33 mpg-imp; 27 mpg-US) |
2.3 8V | inline 4 | 132 HP | 198 NM (146 lb·ft) | 10.4 | 204 km/h (127 mph) | |
2.0 16V | inline 4 | 136 HP | 190 NM (140 lb·ft) | 11.5–12.1 | 183–200 km/h | 8.7 L/100 km (32 mpg-imp; 27 mpg-US) |
2.3 8V | inline 4 | 136 HP | 205 NM (151 lb·ft) | 11.2–13.5 | 185–200 km/h | 9.0 L/100 km (31 mpg-imp; 26 mpg-US) |
2.2 16V | inline 4 | 150 HP | 210 NM (155 lb·ft) | 10.6–11.1 | 193–210 km/h | 8.8 L/100 km (32 mpg-imp; 27 mpg-US) |
2.6 12V | inline 6 | 160 HP | 220 NM (162 lb·ft) | 8.7 | 218 km/h (135 mph) | |
2.6 12V | inline 6 | 166 HP | 230 NM (170 lb·ft) | 10.0–10.5 | 205–215 km/h | 10.0 L/100 km (28 mpg-imp; 24 mpg-US) |
2.6 12V | inline 6 | 170 HP | 240 NM (177 lb·ft) | 7.9–8.8 | 210–232 km/h | 10.0 L/100 km (28 mpg-imp; 24 mpg-US) |
3.0 12V | inline 6 | 180 HP | 255 NM (188 lb·ft) | 8.5–9.9 | 204–225 km/h | 10.9 L/100 km (26 mpg-imp; 21.6 mpg-US) |
3.0 12V | inline 6 | 188 HP | 260 NM (192 lb·ft) | |||
2.8 24V | inline 6 | 193 HP | 270 NM (199 lb·ft) | 9.1 | 230 km/h (143 mph) | 10.7 L/100 km (26 mpg-imp; 22 mpg-US) |
2.8 24V | inline 6 | 197 HP | 270 NM (199 lb·ft) | 8.8–9.1 | 213–220 km/h | 10.7 L/100 km (26 mpg-imp; 22 mpg-US) |
3.0 24V | inline 6 | 220 HP | 265 NM (195 lb·ft) | 7.8–8.4 | 217–237 km/h | 11.0 L/100 km (26 mpg-imp; 21.4 mpg-US) |
3.2 24V | inline 6 | 220 HP | 310 NM (229 lb·ft) | 7.8–8.3 | 235–243 km/h | 10.9 L/100 km (26 mpg-imp; 21.6 mpg-US) |
3.6 24V AMG | inline 6 | 272 HP | 385 NM (284 lb·ft) | 7.0–7.2 | 250 km/h (155 mph) | 11.0 L/100 km (26 mpg-imp; 21.4 mpg-US) |
4.2 32V | V8 | 279 HP | 400 NM (295 lb·ft) | 6.8 | 250 km/h (155 mph) | 11.8 L/100 km (24 mpg-imp; 19.9 mpg-US) |
5.0 32V | V8 | 320 HP | 480 NM (354 lb·ft) | 5.9 | 250 km/h (155 mph) | 13.5 L/100 km (20.9 mpg-imp; 17.4 mpg-US) |
5.0 32V | V8 | 326 HP | 480 NM (354 lb·ft) | 5.9 | 250 km/h (155 mph) | |
6.0 32V | V8 | 381 HP | 580 NM (428 lb·ft) | 5.4 | 250 km/h (155 mph) | 14.5 L/100 km (19.5 mpg-imp; 16.2 mpg-US) |
Diesel | ||||||
2.0 8V D | inline 4 | 72 HP | 123 NM (91 lb·ft) | 18.5 | 160 km/h (99 mph) | |
2.0 8V D | inline 4 | 75 HP | 126 NM (93 lb·ft) | 19.5–21.5 | 145–160 km/h | 6.7 L/100 km (42 mpg-imp; 35 mpg-US) |
2.5 10V D | inline 5 | 90 HP | 154 NM (114 lb·ft) | 16.5 | 175 km/h (109 mph) | |
2.5 10V D | inline 5 | 94 HP | 158 NM (117 lb·ft) | 16.5–18.5 | 160–165 km/h | 7.2 L/100 km (39 mpg-imp; 33 mpg-US) |
3.0 12V D | inline 6 | 109 HP | 185 NM (136 lb·ft) | 13.7 | 190 km/h (118 mph) | |
2.5 20V D | inline 5 | 113 HP | 173 NM (128 lb·ft) | 18.5–20.4 | 190 km/h | 6.8 L/100 km (42 mpg-imp; 35 mpg-US) |
3.0 12V D | inline 6 | 113 HP | 191 NM (141 lb·ft) | 15.0–16.4 | 175–190 km/h | 7.8 L/100 km (36 mpg-imp; 30 mpg-US) |
2.5 10V TD | inline 5 | 122 HP | 225 NM (166 lb·ft) | 12.3 | 195 km/h (121 mph) | |
2.5 10V TD | inline 5 | 126 HP | 231 NM (170 lb·ft) | 12.5–13.0 | 190–195 km/h | 7.5 L/100 km (38 mpg-imp; 31 mpg-US) |
3.0 24V D | inline 6 | 136 HP | 210 NM (155 lb·ft) | 12.8–13.8 | 187–200 km/h | 7.4 L/100 km (38 mpg-imp; 32 mpg-US) |
3.0 12V TD | inline 6 | 143 HP | 267 NM (197 lb·ft) | 10.9 | 202 km/h (126 mph) | |
3.0 12V TD | inline 6 | 147 HP | 273 NM (201 lb·ft) | 10.9–12.8 | 186–200 km/h | 7.8 L/100 km (36 mpg-imp; 30 mpg-US) |
Some main innovations of the W124 series were related to occupant safety. Derived from the Mercedes 190 (W201), with which the W124 shares the basic layout, its likewise angular body was designed to withstand an offset-crash in a concrete barrier at some 35mph (56km/h) without serious harm to the occupants and a largely undamaged passenger cabin, a windshield that stays in place and doors easily opened without special recovery tools. This crash test configuration became the base for the Euro-NCAP procedure currently being the standard crash test configuration in the EU. Unlike Euro-NCAP, Mercedes required the body of the W124 to withstand an offset impact from the front and from the rear.
The W124 also featured a driver's side airbag (optional in Europe, later standard in the USA), height-adjustable seat belts with electronic-mechanical pre-tensioneers (standard) for both front passengers, rear seat belts which automatically adapted to the size of the passengers (standard), pedals that were moved inversely in a frontal impact (away from the drivers feet and in the direction of the bulkhead separating the cabin from the engine) and door arm rests with deformable elements designed to reduce abdominal injury risk resulting from a side impact.
The dashboard made of impact-absorbing, artificial foam was reinforced with a thin aluminium layer which effectively prevented hoses, valves, housings and other components from heating and engine from penetrating through the dash board inside the passenger cabin in a severe impact. Also, the passenger glove box featured a defined point of rupture, which considerably reduced the probability of front passenger injuries.
Apart from the Mercedes 190, the W124 was the first serially manufactured car in history to see widespread use of light weight high strength steels, which today are a standard in car design.
From late 1988 on, the W124 was one of the first cars available with a passengers side front airbag as an option, initially only in Europe, and from 1990 onwards in North America.
Build quality:
The W124 gained a good reputation for reliability. In 1995 the diesel engined version topped the "upper middle class" category in a reliability survey of 4–6 year old cars undertaken by the German Automobile Association (ADAC), with 11.8 recorded breakdowns per 1,000 vehicles for four year old cars and 21.6 for six year old ones: this compared with 14.6 breakdowns per 1000 cars for four year old Audi 100s and 27.3 for six year old big Audis.
W124 Sedan EU Spec |
W124 Sedan US Spec |
W124 CE Coupe |
W124 T-Model |
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