The Mercedes-Benz W124, produced from 1985 to 1996, represented a significant leap forward in engineering and design for the German automaker. The facelifted version introduced in 1989 brought subtle but important refinements to the already highly regarded platform. Among the variants offered, the 300 E 4MATIC, equipped with a 3.0-liter inline-six engine and all-wheel drive, stood out as a capable and luxurious sedan. This model, producing 180 horsepower, catered to buyers seeking a blend of performance, comfort, and all-weather capability. The W124, while not initially a large seller in the United States compared to its predecessor, the W123, established Mercedes-Benz as a purveyor of durable, technologically advanced automobiles.
Mercedes-Benz W124 300 E 4MATIC: A Detailed Overview
The W124 series was designed to replace the aging W123, and it aimed to offer a more modern and sophisticated driving experience. The 1989 facelift brought improvements to the exterior styling, interior appointments, and mechanical components. The 300 E 4MATIC, in particular, combined the robust M103 engine with Mercedes-Benz’s 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, providing enhanced traction and stability. This combination made it a popular choice in European markets where inclement weather was common. The 300 E 4MATIC was positioned as a premium sedan, competing with models from BMW and Audi.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 300 E 4MATIC is the M103 E 30 inline-six engine, a 2,960 cc (180.63 cu. in.) naturally aspirated powerplant. This engine delivers 180 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and 255 Nm (188.08 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4,400 rpm. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain. Its longitudinal front engine layout contributes to balanced handling. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system utilizes a viscous coupling to distribute power between the rear and front axles as needed, providing optimal traction in various conditions. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 9.1 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 8.6 seconds. The vehicle boasts a top speed of 217 km/h (134.84 mph). The power-to-weight ratio of 8.6 kg/Hp and torque-to-weight ratio of 6 kg/Nm contribute to a responsive driving experience.
Design & Features
The W124 300 E 4MATIC is a four-door sedan with a classic, understated Mercedes-Benz design. The body is characterized by its clean lines, robust construction, and attention to detail. The 1989 facelift included subtle revisions to the front and rear fascias, as well as updated interior trim. The interior is designed for comfort and practicality, offering seating for five passengers. Key features include power steering, ventilated front disc brakes, and disc brakes on the rear axle. The inclusion of ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was a significant safety feature for its time. The 4MATIC system adds to the vehicle’s appeal by providing enhanced stability and control, particularly on slippery surfaces. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4,740 mm (186.61 in.) in length, 1,740 mm (68.5 in.) in width, and 1,450 mm (57.09 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2,800 mm (110.24 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | W124 |
| Generation | W124 (facelift 1989) |
| Type | 300 E (180 Hp) 4MATIC Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 1989 |
| End of production | July, 1993 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 217 km/h (134.84 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 180 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Torque | 255 Nm @ 4400 rpm (188.08 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 103 E 30 / 103.983 |
| Engine displacement | 2960 cm3 (180.63 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88.5 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.2 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 | 1540 kg (3395.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2135 kg (4706.87 lbs.) |
| Max load | 595 kg (1311.75 lbs.) |
| 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 | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2800 mm (110.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1497 mm (58.94 in.) |
| Rear track | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| 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 | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 15 |
The Mercedes-Benz W124 300 E 4MATIC represents a high point in traditional Mercedes-Benz engineering. Its combination of a smooth inline-six engine, robust construction, and all-wheel-drive capability made it a desirable vehicle for those seeking a refined and capable luxury sedan. The W124 series, and the 300 E 4MATIC in particular, remains a popular choice among enthusiasts and collectors today, appreciated for its durability, build quality, and timeless design.
