The Mercedes-Benz W124 300 E 4-matic, produced from December 1985 to August 1989, represents a significant evolution in the mid-size luxury sedan segment. As part of the W124 series, it offered a blend of engineering refinement, robust build quality, and advanced features for its time. The 300 E 4-matic specifically distinguished itself with its all-wheel-drive system, providing enhanced traction and stability, particularly valuable in inclement weather conditions. While primarily a European market vehicle, the W124 series, and specifically models like the 300 E, gained a following among enthusiasts in North America who appreciated its durability and understated elegance.
Mercedes-Benz W124 300 E 4-matic: A Detailed Overview
The W124 series was designed as a successor to the W201 (190E) and W123 models, aiming to bridge the gap between compact and full-size Mercedes-Benz offerings. The 300 E 4-matic, with its inline-six engine and all-wheel-drive capability, positioned itself as a premium variant within the range, appealing to buyers seeking a sophisticated and capable vehicle. It was a period where Mercedes-Benz was solidifying its reputation for building exceptionally durable and reliable automobiles.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the 300 E 4-matic lies the M103 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant produced 188 horsepower at 5700 rpm and 255 Nm (188.08 lb-ft) of torque at 4400 rpm. The engine featured multi-port manifold fuel injection and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain. This configuration delivered a smooth and refined driving experience, characteristic of Mercedes-Benz engines of the era. The engine’s specific output was 63.5 horsepower per liter, a respectable figure for the late 1980s. Power was delivered to all four wheels through a 5-speed manual transmission, contributing to a 0-60 mph acceleration time of approximately 8.2 seconds and a top speed of 220 km/h (136.7 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 7.9 kg/Hp and a weight-to-torque ratio of 5.8 kg/Nm further highlight the vehicle’s balanced performance characteristics.
Design & Features
The W124 300 E 4-matic is a four-door sedan with a classic, understated design. Its body style emphasized practicality and elegance, avoiding the more flamboyant aesthetics of some contemporary vehicles. The car offered seating for five passengers and a trunk capacity of 520 liters (18.36 cubic feet). A key feature of the 300 E 4-matic was its permanent all-wheel-drive system. This system utilized an electrically or mechanically operated clutch to engage the front wheels when rear wheel slippage was detected, providing improved traction and stability. Safety features, while not as comprehensive as modern standards, included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), a significant advancement for the time. The interior was characterized by high-quality materials and a focus on comfort, reflecting Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to providing a luxurious driving experience. Hydraulic power steering and ventilated front disc brakes were standard equipment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | W124 |
| Generation | W124 |
| Type (Engine) | 300 E 4-matic (188 Hp) |
| Start of production | December, 1985 |
| End of production | August, 1989 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.9 l/100 km (16.9 US mpg, 20.3 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 220 km/h (136.7 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 188 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 255 Nm @ 4400 rpm (188.08 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 103 |
| 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 | 1490 kg (3284.89 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2030 kg (4475.38 lbs.) |
| Max load | 540 kg (1190.5 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 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 | 1451 mm (57.13 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2800 mm (110.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1501 mm (59.09 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels permanently, and the front wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Coil spring |
| 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 |
The Mercedes-Benz W124 300 E 4-matic remains a highly regarded vehicle among enthusiasts, celebrated for its build quality, reliability, and refined driving experience. Its all-wheel-drive system and robust engineering continue to make it a capable and desirable classic car.
