The Mercedes-Benz W124 260 E 4MATIC, produced from October 1986 to August 1989, represents a pivotal point in the evolution of the mid-size executive car. Part of the W124 series, which succeeded the W201, this model offered a blend of engineering refinement, robust build quality, and, in the case of the 260 E 4MATIC, all-wheel drive capability. While not initially a high-volume seller in the United States (the W124 series was sold in the US from 1986-1993), the 260 E 4MATIC was a significant offering in European markets, where all-wheel drive sedans were gaining popularity for their enhanced traction and stability in varied weather conditions. The W124 series, as a whole, established a new benchmark for passive safety and build quality for Mercedes-Benz, and the 260 E 4MATIC exemplifies these characteristics.
Mercedes-Benz W124 260 E 4MATIC: A Detailed Overview
The W124 series was designed to address criticisms leveled at its predecessor, the W201, regarding build quality and refinement. The 260 E 4MATIC, specifically, aimed to provide a more secure driving experience, particularly in inclement weather, through its sophisticated all-wheel drive system. This system, utilizing a combination of permanent rear-wheel drive and on-demand front-wheel drive, offered improved handling and stability compared to traditional rear-wheel drive configurations. The 260 E 4MATIC was positioned as a premium offering within the W124 range, appealing to buyers seeking a comfortable, safe, and capable sedan.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 260 E 4MATIC is its 2.6-liter inline-six cylinder engine, designated the M 103 E 26 (103.943). This naturally aspirated engine produces 166 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 228 Nm (168.16 lb-ft) of torque at 4600 rpm. The engine features multi-port manifold fuel injection and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain. While not a performance-oriented engine, it delivers smooth and reliable power, well-suited to the car’s intended role as a comfortable and refined cruiser. The power-to-weight ratio of 9 kg/Hp and a torque-to-weight ratio of 6.5 kg/Nm contribute to respectable, if not exhilarating, acceleration. The 260 E 4MATIC could accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in approximately 10 seconds, and 0-60 mph in 9.5 seconds, reaching a top speed of 210 km/h (130.49 mph). The engine requires 6.5 liters (6.87 US quarts) of engine oil and 9 liters (9.51 US quarts) of coolant for optimal operation.
Design & Features
The W124 260 E 4MATIC is a four-door sedan with a classic, understated Mercedes-Benz design. Its body is characterized by clean lines, a relatively upright stance, and a focus on aerodynamic efficiency. The interior is spacious and well-appointed, offering seating for five passengers. Key features of the 260 E 4MATIC included hydraulic power steering, ventilated front disc brakes, and disc brakes on the rear axle. A significant safety feature for its time was the inclusion of an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), which helped to prevent wheel lockup during hard braking, improving stability and control. The 4MATIC all-wheel drive system itself was a defining feature, providing enhanced traction in slippery conditions. The trunk offers a generous 520 liters (18.36 cubic feet) of storage space. The vehicle rides on 6.5J x 15 inch wheel rims with 195/65 R15 tires.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | W124 |
| Generation | W124 |
| Type (Engine) | 260 E (166 Hp) 4MATIC |
| Start of production | October, 1986 |
| End of production | August, 1989 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.4 l/100 km (17.6 US mpg, 21.1 UK mpg, 7.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg, 36.7 UK mpg, 13 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 166 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 228 Nm @ 4600 rpm (168.16 lb.-ft. @ 4600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 103 E 26 / 103.943 |
| Engine displacement | 2599 cm3 (158.6 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.9 mm (3.26 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.25 mm (3.16 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1490 kg (3284.89 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2010 kg (4431.29 lbs.) |
| Max load | 520 kg (1146.4 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4740 mm (186.61 in.) |
| Width | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Height | 1451 mm (57.13 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2800 mm (110.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1497 mm (58.94 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual 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/Rear: 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | Front/Rear: 6.5J x 15 |
The Mercedes-Benz W124 260 E 4MATIC remains a highly regarded vehicle, appreciated for its build quality, reliability, and understated elegance. It represents a significant step forward in Mercedes-Benz engineering and continues to be a popular choice among enthusiasts and collectors.
