The Mercedes-Benz W124 300 D Turbo, produced from September 1988 to August 1989, represents a refined iteration of the popular W124 series. This model, a mid-size sedan, was primarily aimed at the European market, where diesel-powered vehicles held significant appeal due to fuel efficiency and durability. While not widely sold in the United States, the W124 series as a whole gained a following among enthusiasts for its build quality and engineering. The 300 D Turbo specifically offered a compelling blend of performance and economy, making it a desirable option for long-distance drivers and those seeking a premium diesel experience.
The Mercedes-Benz W124 300 D Turbo
The W124 series, launched in 1985, was intended as a successor to the W201 (190E) and W123 models. It represented a significant step forward in terms of technology, safety, and overall refinement. The 300 D Turbo, introduced later in the production run, was positioned as a higher-performance diesel variant, utilizing a turbocharger to boost power output. It catered to drivers who desired more than the standard diesel offerings while still benefiting from the inherent advantages of diesel fuel.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the W124 300 D Turbo lies the OM 603 D 30 A inline-six cylinder diesel engine, displacing 2,996 cubic centimeters (182.83 cubic inches). This engine, equipped with a turbocharger and precombustion chamber fuel injection, produces 147 horsepower at 4,600 rpm and 273 Nm (201.35 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2400 rpm. The turbocharger significantly enhances the engine’s responsiveness and power delivery compared to naturally aspirated diesel engines of the time. Power per liter is rated at 49.1 hp/l. The engine is longitudinally mounted at the front of the vehicle, driving the rear wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 10.9 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 10.4 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 202 km/h (125.52 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 10.7 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 5.8 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The W124 300 D Turbo is a four-door sedan with a classic, understated Mercedes-Benz design. Its body style emphasizes practicality and elegance, rather than overt sportiness. The vehicle offers seating for five passengers and provides a spacious interior. Key features include ventilated front disc brakes and disc brakes in the rear, along with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The suspension utilizes a wishbone setup at the front and an independent multi-link suspension with coil springs at the rear, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Power steering, utilizing a cone worm and recirculation balls system, contributes to ease of maneuverability. The vehicle rides on 195/65 R15 tires mounted on 6.5J x 15 inch wheel rims. The trunk offers a minimum capacity of 520 liters (18.36 cubic feet), providing ample space for luggage and cargo. The focus of the W124’s design was on safety and durability, with a robust chassis and high-quality materials used throughout.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | W124 |
| Generation | W124 |
| Type (Engine) | 300 D Turbo (147 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 1988 |
| End of production | August, 1989 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.3 l/100 km (25.3 US mpg, 30.4 UK mpg, 10.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 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 | 202 km/h (125.52 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 147 Hp @ 4600 rpm |
| 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 | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1580 kg (3483.3 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2050 kg (4519.48 lbs.) |
| Max load | 470 kg (1036.17 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 | 1431 mm (56.34 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2800 mm (110.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1501 mm (59.09 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1491 mm (58.7 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Coil spring |
| 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 |
The Mercedes-Benz W124 300 D Turbo remains a respected vehicle among enthusiasts, celebrated for its robust engineering, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. While not a high-performance sports sedan, it offered a compelling package for those seeking a refined and durable diesel-powered vehicle.
