The Mercedes-Benz W124 260 E, produced from August 1984 to August 1989, represents a pivotal generation in the lineage of the E-Class, though the E-Class designation wouldn’t be formally adopted until the subsequent W210 series. Positioned as a mid-size luxury sedan, the W124 was designed to succeed the W201 (190E) and W116 models, offering a blend of comfort, durability, and understated elegance. The 260 E variant, equipped with a 2.6-liter inline-six engine and automatic transmission, was a popular choice for buyers seeking a refined and capable vehicle. The W124 established a new benchmark for build quality and safety within its segment, becoming a symbol of German engineering prowess.
The Mercedes-Benz W124 260 E: A Legacy of Engineering
The W124 series was a significant departure from its predecessors, incorporating advancements in aerodynamics, chassis design, and safety features. Its robust construction and focus on passenger protection earned it a reputation for longevity and reliability. The 260 E specifically, offered a compelling combination of performance and fuel efficiency for its time. While not overtly sporty, the inline-six engine provided smooth and responsive power delivery, making it well-suited for both city driving and long-distance touring. The automatic transmission further enhanced the driving experience, offering seamless gear changes and ease of operation.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the 260 E lies the M103 E 26 / 103.940 engine, a 2.6-liter (2599 cm3 or 158.6 cu. in.) inline-six cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 170 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 230 Nm (169.64 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4500 rpm. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 7.8 kg/Hp, and it delivers 65.4 Hp per liter of displacement. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 9.5 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 9 seconds. The 260 E boasts a maximum speed of 213 km/h (132.35 mph). Fuel consumption is rated at 12.1 l/100 km (19.4 US mpg, 23.3 UK mpg, 8.3 km/l) in urban conditions and 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg, 12.2 km/l) on the extra-urban cycle. The engine utilizes multi-port manifold fuel injection and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its smooth operation and relatively efficient fuel delivery.
Design & Features
The W124 260 E is a four-door sedan with a classic, understated design. Its body is characterized by clean lines, a relatively upright stance, and a focus on functional elegance. The interior is spacious and well-appointed, offering comfortable seating for five passengers. Key features of the 260 E include hydraulic power steering, ventilated front disc brakes, and disc brakes on the rear axle. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was also included, a significant safety advancement for the era. The suspension utilizes a wishbone design at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The trunk offers a generous 520 liters (18.36 cu. ft.) of storage space. The vehicle rides on 195/65 R15 tires mounted on 6.5J x 15 inch wheel rims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | W124 |
| Generation | W124 |
| Type (Engine) | 260 E (170 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | August, 1984 |
| End of production | August, 1989 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.1 l/100 km (19.4 US mpg, 23.3 UK mpg, 8.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg, 12.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 213 km/h (132.35 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 4500 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 103 E 26 / 103.940 |
| Engine displacement | 2599 cm3 (158.6 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.9 mm (3.26 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.25 mm (3.16 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1330 kg (2932.15 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1850 kg (4078.55 lbs.) |
| Max load | 520 kg (1146.4 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space | 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 | 1446 mm (56.93 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2800 mm (110.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1497 mm (58.94 in.) |
| Rear track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Drivetrain | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
The Mercedes-Benz W124 260 E remains a highly regarded classic, appreciated for its build quality, reliability, and timeless design. It represents a significant milestone in Mercedes-Benz history, laying the foundation for the modern E-Class and continuing to offer a refined driving experience for enthusiasts today.
