Mercedes-Benz S124 (facelift ) 300 TE (180 Hp) 4MATIC Automatic

The Mercedes-Benz S124 (facelift 1989) 300 TE 4MATIC Automatic: A Paragon of Engineering and Utility

The Mercedes-Benz W124 series, produced from 1984 to 1996, stands as a monumental achievement in automotive engineering, renowned for its exceptional build quality, durability, and sophisticated design. Within this esteemed lineage, the S124 designation refers specifically to the station wagon (estate) variant, offering unparalleled practicality without compromising the W124’s inherent luxury and driving dynamics. The focus of this detailed examination is the facelifted Mercedes-Benz S124 (facelift 1989) 300 TE 4MATIC Automatic, a model produced from September 1989 to July 1993. This particular iteration represented a significant blend of refinement, robust performance, and advanced all-wheel-drive technology, making it a highly desirable and capable vehicle in its segment. It embodied Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to innovation, particularly with the introduction of its sophisticated 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, which offered enhanced traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. The 300 TE, powered by a venerable inline-six engine, provided a compelling balance of power and smooth operation, cementing its reputation as a benchmark for premium station wagons globally, particularly within the European market where such vehicles held significant appeal for families and professionals alike.

Engine and Performance: The Heart of the Mercedes-Benz S124 (facelift 1989) 300 TE 4MATIC Automatic

Under the hood of the Mercedes-Benz S124 (facelift 1989) 300 TE 4MATIC Automatic lay the M103 E30 / 103.985 engine, a naturally aspirated 3.0-liter (2960 cm³ or 180.63 cu. in.) inline-six powerplant. This engine, a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz engineering from the era, was celebrated for its smooth power delivery, robust construction, and impressive longevity. Featuring a Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder and a multi-port manifold injection system, it produced a respectable 180 horsepower at 5700 rpm. Its power-per-liter rating stood at 60.8 Hp/l, indicative of a well-engineered, naturally aspirated unit designed for consistent, reliable performance rather than outright peak power.

Torque output was equally impressive, with 255 Nm (188.08 lb.-ft.) available at 4400 rpm, providing ample pulling power for a family wagon, even when fully loaded. This robust torque curve, combined with the smooth-shifting 4-speed automatic transmission, ensured effortless cruising and responsive acceleration. The Mercedes-Benz S124 (facelift 1989) 300 TE 4MATIC Automatic could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 9.3 seconds (0-100 km/h in 9.8 seconds), and reach a top speed of 126.76 mph (204 km/h). These figures were highly competitive for a luxury station wagon of its time, especially one equipped with an all-wheel-drive system. The engine’s longitudinal front layout contributed to the vehicle’s balanced weight distribution and classic Mercedes-Benz driving feel.

The defining characteristic of this particular model was its advanced 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. Unlike permanent all-wheel-drive systems, the W124’s 4MATIC was an intelligent, on-demand system. It primarily drove the rear wheels, engaging the front wheels through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch only when necessary, such as during wheel slip. This innovative system provided superior traction in challenging conditions, enhancing safety and driver confidence without significantly impacting fuel economy during normal driving. Fuel consumption figures were 16.1 US mpg in urban settings and a more efficient 23.5 US mpg on the highway, respectable for a vehicle of its size, power, and drivetrain complexity from that era.

Design and Features: Timeless Elegance and Practicality

The S124 station wagon embodied Mercedes-Benz’s philosophy of functional elegance. Its five-door, five-seat body type was meticulously designed to offer maximum utility without sacrificing aesthetic appeal. The facelift in 1989 brought subtle but important refinements, including body-color side moldings, revised bumpers, and updated interior trim, aligning its appearance more closely with the evolving design language of the brand. The W124’s design, penned by Bruno Sacco, is widely considered a masterpiece of automotive styling, characterized by its clean lines, robust proportions, and exceptional aerodynamic efficiency for its time.

Measuring 187.6 inches in length, 68.5 inches in width, and 58.94 inches in height, with a wheelbase of 110.24 inches, the S124 300 TE offered a spacious and comfortable cabin. The station wagon body provided a cavernous cargo area, making it highly practical for families, long-distance travel, or carrying bulky items. Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to safety was evident even in this era, with features like Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard. The braking system comprised ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing strong and consistent stopping power.

Suspension-wise, the S124 utilized a wishbone setup at the front and a sophisticated independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This advanced rear suspension design, a pioneering feature for its time, contributed significantly to the W124’s renowned ride comfort, precise handling, and excellent road holding. Power-assisted hydraulic steering, of the cone worm with recirculation balls type, provided a reassuringly direct and communicative steering feel. The vehicle rode on 195/65 R15 tires mounted on 6.5J x 15 inch wheels, a common and sensible setup that balanced comfort with adequate grip. The attention to detail in the W124’s engineering, from its robust chassis to its well-appointed interior, underscored its position as a premium offering in the global automotive market.

Technical Specifications: Mercedes-Benz S124 (facelift 1989) 300 TE (180 Hp) 4MATIC Automatic

Legacy and Market Impact

The Mercedes-Benz W124 series, and particularly its S124 station wagon variant, holds a revered place in automotive history. The Mercedes-Benz S124 (facelift 1989) 300 TE 4MATIC Automatic exemplifies the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz’s engineering prowess during an era often referred to as the “golden age” of Mercedes-Benz over-engineering. These vehicles were built to an uncompromising standard, leading to their legendary reputation for reliability, longevity, and exceptional resistance to wear and tear. It was not uncommon for W124 models, especially the robust inline-six variants, to achieve hundreds of thousands of miles with proper maintenance, a testament to their inherent quality.

In its primary European market, the S124 300 TE 4MATIC was highly regarded as a versatile and prestigious family vehicle. It competed with rivals such as the BMW 5 Series Touring (E34 generation) and the Audi 100 Avant (C3 and later C4 generations). While BMW offered a sportier driving experience and Audi pioneered its quattro all-wheel-drive, the Mercedes-Benz S124 distinguished itself with its superior ride comfort, unparalleled build quality, and a more traditional, understated luxury. The 4MATIC system, in particular, gave it a distinct edge in markets with challenging winter conditions, offering a level of all-weather capability that enhanced its appeal significantly.

Even in the United States, where station wagons faced declining popularity in favor of SUVs in the 1990s, the W124 wagon maintained a strong, albeit niche, following. Its spaciousness, robust construction, and refined driving experience appealed to discerning buyers who valued practicality without sacrificing luxury. The 4MATIC variant, though less common in the US than the standard rear-wheel-drive models, was appreciated for its advanced technology and added security.

Today, the W124 series, including the Mercedes-Benz S124 (facelift 1989) 300 TE 4MATIC Automatic, is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Its classic status is cemented by its timeless design, mechanical integrity, and the enduring legacy of being one of the last “over-engineered” Mercedes-Benz models. It represents an era when automotive design prioritized durability, comfort, and safety above all else, making it a true icon of automotive excellence and a cherished piece of Mercedes-Benz heritage. Its impact continues to resonate, influencing subsequent generations of luxury wagons and setting a high bar for engineering standards in the automotive industry.