The Mercedes-Benz E 300 T Turbodiesel automatic, produced between July 1993 and February 1996, represents a compelling blend of practicality, efficiency, and understated luxury within the W124 series of estate cars (T-Modell). Positioned as a mid-range offering in the E-Class lineup, it catered to buyers seeking the spaciousness of a wagon with the refinement and durability expected from Mercedes-Benz, coupled with the fuel economy benefits of a turbocharged diesel engine. This variant occupied a space between the more basic 250 T Diesel and the higher-performance E 320 T models, appealing to those prioritizing long-distance comfort and load-carrying capacity over outright speed.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class T-modell (S124) |
| Type (Engine) | E 300 T Turbodiesel (147 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | July, 1993 |
| End of production | February, 1996 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.9 kg/Hp, 91.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm, 170.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 147 Hp @ 4600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 49.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 273 Nm @ 2400 rpm (201.35 lb.-ft. @ 2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 603 D 30 A / 603.960 |
| Engine displacement | 2996 cm3 (182.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87 mm (3.43 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 22:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2235 kg (4927.33 lbs.) |
| Max load | 635 kg (1399.94 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 530 l (18.72 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 885 l (31.25 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 72 l (19.02 US gal | 15.84 UK gal) |
| Length | 4765 mm (187.6 in.) |
| Width | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Height | 1490 mm (58.66 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2800 mm (110.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1497 mm (58.94 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 195/65 R15Rear wheel tires: 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 6.5J x 15Rear wheel rims: 6.5J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 300 T Turbodiesel is the OM 603 D 30 A inline-six cylinder diesel engine, a 2.996-liter (182.83 cubic inches) unit. This engine utilizes precombustion chamber injection, a system common in Mercedes-Benz diesels of the era, known for its relatively quiet operation and good combustion efficiency. The addition of a turbocharger and intercooler significantly boosted power output to 147 horsepower at 4600 rpm and 273 Nm (201.35 lb-ft) of torque at 2400 rpm. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The automatic transmission is a four-speed unit, designed to provide smooth shifts and enhance the car’s usability for long journeys. This transmission was chosen to complement the engine’s torque characteristics, offering a relaxed driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The E 300 T Turbodiesel automatic delivers a characteristically smooth and refined driving experience. While not a sports car, the turbocharged diesel provides ample torque for effortless cruising and confident overtaking. The automatic transmission, while not offering the responsiveness of a manual, contributes to a relaxed driving style. Acceleration to 60 mph takes approximately 10.4 seconds, and the car reaches a top speed of 195 km/h (121.17 mph). Compared to the manual transmission version, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness, but gains in ease of use, particularly in urban environments. Compared to the more powerful E 320 T, the E 300 T offers a more economical driving experience, albeit with slightly less performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 300 T Turbodiesel automatic typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features, including power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was usually cloth, though leather was available as an option. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, automatic climate control, and heated seats. The dashboard layout was typical of the W124 series, characterized by a functional and durable design. Trim levels were relatively simple, with options primarily focused on adding comfort and convenience features.
Chassis & Braking
The W124 chassis features independent suspension all around, with a wishbone setup at the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, supplemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The steering is a recirculating ball system with hydraulic power assistance, offering a balance of feel and ease of use.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 300 T Turbodiesel automatic was generally well-received by critics and buyers alike. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, spaciousness, and comfortable ride. Compared to the petrol-powered E 320 T, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a popular choice for long-distance drivers. However, some critics noted the slightly slower acceleration compared to the petrol models. Reliability was also a strong point, with the OM 603 engine being known for its durability.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz E 300 T Turbodiesel automatic has proven to be a remarkably durable and reliable vehicle. Many examples are still on the road today, testament to the quality of engineering and construction. In the used car market, these wagons are sought after by enthusiasts and those looking for a practical and dependable estate car. The OM 603 engine is highly regarded for its longevity and relatively simple maintenance requirements. While finding parts can sometimes be a challenge, the availability of aftermarket support ensures that these vehicles can be kept running for many years to come.
