Build quality of CE300/320 W124

[Apial]

thanks dw124...but 1990 is too old...i definatly want a face lift...and i like white, i have a 200 te in white at the moment...hah
and also...the 300-24, wil it be an more less reliable to the 320? the extra age for instance?...i was searching for as late a model as i could, howver now i read that the engines got more complicated...i think now that a late 93 to ealry 95 would be the best option....picky i know but i do like the best...thus im a mb fan..hah

The 300-24 engine is a M104 engine with semi mechanical injection and a more peaky power output. It was built pre recyclable wiring construction days, so should be less trouble in that respect. Also the lack of electronics also seems to lead to a more reliable engine.

The common problem is a leaky head gasket that dribbles oil down the exhaust manifold on M104 engines and perhaps M103 too. If the engine has had the gasket replaced then the problem is more or less solved as the new gasket is an improved reinforced design compared to the original.

On a properly serviced engine the age is not really an issue unless you are talking intergalactic mileage.

 

[c955]

When I bought mine, the advice I was given (by the cognoscenti i.e this forum) beforehand, was that age and mileage didn't really matter for the cars in which I was interested; the only thing was condition.

Good luck in your search!

 

[Triple Star]

Roger

think I might suffer the same sympton. feels a bit vibey as its coming from mid passenger side noticeable at 45 65/70

I had the indie specialist check the driveshaft and he said it was sound, and it might be the wheel alignment ?

I have a hunch that new engine mounts are the cure as I replaced them on my old 300CE and its was super smooth

what do you all think ?

 

[abecketts]

320 vs 300

Whilst owning a 95n 320 estate i'd probably swap it for a friends 92k 300te despite the age difference it feels better put together despite similar mileages. Downside the wood trim and seat fabrics look more dated and perhaps the non facelift cars look more slab like but they are minor comments. Would others agree with me on this?

 

[bolide]

Whilst owning a 95n 320 estate i'd probably swap it for a friends 92k 300te despite the age difference it feels better put together despite similar mileages. Downside the wood trim and seat fabrics look more dated and perhaps the non facelift cars look more slab like but they are minor comments. Would others agree with me on this?

No

I think there are more differences between individual cars than between pre- and post-facelift cars. The differences you're seeing are more likely to be down to the cars and not the facelift

Nick Froome

 

[The Boss]

Whilst owning a 95n 320 estate i'd probably swap it for a friends 92k 300te despite the age difference it feels better put together despite similar mileages. Downside the wood trim and seat fabrics look more dated and perhaps the non facelift cars look more slab like but they are minor comments. Would others agree with me on this?

i agree, the original w124's had something special.. the facelift were good, but i personally feel the originals were tougher and more durable...

even the black bumpers felt more durable than the later colour coded ones... or am i wrong on that peeps?

 

[grober]

After 96 there was w124 made in India and South Africa.I`ve seen w124 with X plate.

Saloons only often with manual gearbox and heavier duty suspension --no Coupes AFAIK