The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet (A124) E 220, produced from December 1992 to July 1997, represented a compelling blend of open-air motoring and Mercedes-Benz luxury. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the A124 Cabriolet lineup, it slotted between the entry-level E 200 and the more powerful E 320. This variant aimed to provide a comfortable and refined experience for buyers seeking a stylish convertible without the higher price tag or performance focus of its siblings. The A124 generation was a significant evolution of the W124 platform, offering improved refinement and a more modern aesthetic while retaining the robust engineering that characterized Mercedes-Benz vehicles of the era.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class Cabrio (A124) |
| Type (Engine) | E 220 (150 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | December, 1992 |
| End of production | July, 1997 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.5 l/100 km (20.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 210 Nm @ 4000 rpm (154.89 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 111 E 22 / 111.960 |
| Engine displacement | 2199 cm3 (134.19 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 89.9 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.6 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1630 kg (3593.53 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2130 kg (4695.85 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 300 l (10.59 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4655 mm (183.27 in.) |
| Width | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Height | 1391 mm (54.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2715 mm (106.89 in.) |
| Front track | 1501 mm (59.09 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1491 mm (58.7 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 E 220 Cabriolet was powered by the M111 E 22 engine, a 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine was a significant departure from the older CIS-E (Continuous Injection System) fuel injection found in earlier W124 models, utilizing a more modern multi-port fuel injection system. This resulted in improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and a smoother power delivery. The engine featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its relatively high specific output for a naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine of the time. The engine code 111.960 specifically denotes this configuration. Paired with the M111 was a four-speed automatic transmission, offering convenient operation for everyday driving. This transmission was designed for smooth shifts and comfortable cruising, prioritizing refinement over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The E 220 Automatic offered a relaxed and comfortable driving experience. With 150 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque, acceleration was adequate but not particularly brisk. The 0-60 mph time of around 10.9 seconds reflects this. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did contribute to some power loss compared to the available manual transmission. Gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy and cruising, meaning the engine didn’t feel particularly stressed at highway speeds. Compared to the E 320, the E 220 lacked the punch for spirited driving, but it offered a more economical and accessible entry point into the E-Class Cabriolet range. The rear-wheel drive configuration provided a balanced feel, although it wasn’t a particularly sporty setup.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 220 Cabriolet came standard with a respectable level of equipment, befitting a luxury vehicle. This included power windows, power locks, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a basic audio system. Upholstery was typically cloth, although leather was available as an option. Optional extras included automatic climate control, heated seats, a premium sound system, and a wind deflector to reduce turbulence in the cabin with the top down. The dashboard layout was typical of Mercedes-Benz at the time, with a functional and understated design. Wood trim was often included to enhance the interior’s luxurious feel.
Chassis & Braking
The A124 Cabriolet chassis was a reinforced version of the W124 sedan platform, designed to provide the necessary rigidity for an open-top vehicle. The front suspension utilized wishbones, while the rear featured an independent multi-link suspension, offering a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Braking was handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety. The E 220, being a mid-range model, typically featured slightly smaller stabilizer bars compared to the higher-performance E 320, resulting in a bit more body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 220 Cabriolet was generally well-received by critics as a comfortable and stylish convertible. It was praised for its build quality, refinement, and relatively affordable price point compared to its more powerful siblings. Fuel economy was considered reasonable for a vehicle of its size and class. However, some reviewers noted that the performance was somewhat underwhelming, particularly when compared to competitors offering more powerful engines. Compared to the E 320, the E 220 offered a lower purchase price and better fuel economy, but at the expense of performance. The E 200, the entry-level model, was even more affordable but offered significantly less power.
Legacy
The M111 engine, in general, proved to be a reliable and durable powerplant. The E 220 Cabriolet, while not the most sought-after variant, has maintained a loyal following among Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts. Today, well-maintained examples are becoming increasingly collectible. The automatic transmission, while not known for its sportiness, has proven to be relatively reliable with proper maintenance. Common issues with these vehicles often relate to age-related wear and tear, such as hydraulic leaks, electrical component failures, and deterioration of rubber seals. Finding original parts can sometimes be challenging, but a robust aftermarket exists to support these classic Mercedes-Benz models.
