The Mercedes-Benz E 320 Coupe (C124) represented a sophisticated blend of performance and luxury within the iconic C124 chassis family. Produced between July 1993 and March 1996, this variant occupied a significant position in the lineup, bridging the gap between the more accessible E 220 and the flagship E 36 AMG models. The C124 coupe, known for its elegant styling and robust engineering, was a popular choice for buyers seeking a refined grand tourer. The E 320, with its larger engine and automatic transmission, catered to those prioritizing effortless power delivery and a comfortable driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class Coupe (C124) |
| Type (Engine) | E 320 (220 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | July, 1993 |
| End of production | March, 1996 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 235 km/h (146.02 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.8 kg/Hp, 147.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 211.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 220 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 315 Nm @ 3850 rpm (232.33 lb.-ft. @ 3850 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 104 E 32 / 104.992 |
| Engine displacement | 3199 cm3 (195.21 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 89.9 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 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 | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1490 kg (3284.89 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1985 kg (4376.18 lbs.) |
| Max load | 495 kg (1091.29 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 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 | 1395 mm (54.92 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 heart of the E 320 Coupe was the M104.992 3.2-liter inline-six engine. This engine, a descendant of the renowned Mercedes-Benz inline-six family, was known for its smoothness and durability. It featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, and a Bosch multi-port fuel injection system. The engine produced 220 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 315 Nm (232 lb-ft) of torque at 3850 rpm. The engine’s design prioritized refinement and low-end torque, making it well-suited to the automatic transmission. Paired with the engine was a four-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth and relatively quick shifts. This transmission was specifically tuned to complement the engine’s characteristics, providing a comfortable and effortless driving experience. The transmission’s gear ratios were geared towards relaxed cruising and responsive acceleration in typical driving situations.
Driving Characteristics
The E 320 Coupe Automatic delivered a distinctly different driving experience compared to its manual transmission counterparts or the smaller-engined E 220. The automatic transmission, while sacrificing some driver engagement, provided a level of convenience and smoothness that appealed to many buyers. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 7.9 seconds, respectable for the early 1990s. The engine’s ample torque meant that the car felt responsive in most driving situations, with effortless overtaking capabilities. However, the automatic transmission did result in a slight reduction in fuel economy compared to the manual version. The car’s weight and rear-wheel-drive configuration contributed to a balanced and predictable handling characteristic, although it wasn’t designed for aggressive cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 320 Coupe typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included power windows, power locks, a sunroof, leather upholstery, and climate control. The interior was characterized by high-quality materials and a focus on comfort. Optional extras included upgraded sound systems, heated seats, and a more sophisticated automatic climate control system. The wood trim on the dashboard and door panels added a touch of elegance to the cabin. The E 320 often featured a more luxurious interior trim than the base E 220 models, reflecting its higher price point.
Chassis & Braking
The C124 chassis featured an independent suspension system, with wishbones at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. This suspension design provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The E 320 Coupe was equipped with ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during hard braking. The steering was a recirculating ball system with hydraulic power assistance, providing a relatively light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 320 Coupe was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. However, some critics noted that the automatic transmission could feel slightly sluggish at times. Compared to the E 220, the E 320 offered significantly more performance and a more luxurious experience. Compared to the higher-performance E 36 AMG models, the E 320 provided a better balance of performance and comfort, making it a more practical choice for everyday driving. Fuel economy was comparable to other vehicles in its class, but slightly lower than the E 220.
Legacy
The M104 engine, found in the E 320, is renowned for its durability and reliability. With proper maintenance, these engines can easily exceed 200,000 miles. The C124 chassis is also known for its robust construction and resistance to rust. Today, the E 320 Coupe is a sought-after classic car, appreciated by enthusiasts for its elegant styling, comfortable ride, and reliable powertrain. Well-maintained examples command a premium in the used car market. The combination of a smooth inline-six engine, a comfortable automatic transmission, and a luxurious interior has ensured that the E 320 Coupe remains a desirable and respected vehicle.
