The Mercedes-Benz W124, particularly the 220 E variant produced from 1992 to 1993, represents a pivotal moment in the German automaker’s history. Falling into the mid-size executive car segment, the W124 was designed as a successor to the W201 (190E) and W123 models, aiming to blend luxury, performance, and robust engineering. The 1989 facelift brought significant improvements to the W124, enhancing its aesthetics, safety features, and overall refinement. The 220 E, with its 2.2-liter engine, offered a balance between fuel efficiency and respectable power, making it a popular choice in European markets and beyond.
The Mercedes-Benz W124 220 E: A Legacy of Engineering
The W124 series, produced between 1985 and 1996, quickly gained a reputation for exceptional build quality and durability. Mercedes-Benz intentionally designed the W124 to be a long-lasting vehicle, prioritizing reliability and passenger safety. The 220 E, specifically, was positioned as a more accessible entry point into the W124 range, offering a comfortable and refined driving experience without the higher price tag of the larger-displacement models. While not initially a major seller in the United States (the W124 was sold in the US from 1986-1993, but the 220E was not among the models offered), it was a significant vehicle in Europe, where its blend of practicality and prestige resonated with buyers.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 220 E is its 2.2-liter (2199 cm3) inline-four cylinder engine, designated the M 111 E 22 / 111.960. This naturally aspirated engine produces 150 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 210 Nm (154.89 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine utilizes multi-port manifold fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively smooth power delivery. Power per liter is a respectable 68.2 hp/l. The engine is longitudinally mounted at the front of the vehicle, driving the rear wheels. Power is transmitted to the wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 10.6 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 10.1 seconds. The 220 E achieves a maximum speed of 205 km/h (127.38 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 9.1 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 6.5 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The W124 220 E is a four-door sedan with a classic, understated Mercedes-Benz design. The 1989 facelift brought subtle but important changes, including revised front and rear styling, improved aerodynamics, and enhanced safety features. The interior is characterized by its high-quality materials, comfortable seating for five passengers, and a focus on ergonomics. Key features included power steering (hydraulic), an anti-lock braking system (ABS), and ventilated front disc brakes. The vehicle’s independent multi-link rear suspension and wishbone front suspension contribute to a comfortable ride and stable handling. The trunk offers a minimum capacity of 520 liters (18.36 cu. ft.), providing ample space for luggage. The fuel tank holds 70 liters (18.49 US gal).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | W124 |
| Generation | W124 (facelift 1989) |
| Type | 220 E (150 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | May, 1992 |
| End of production | July, 1993 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 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 | 1370 kg (3020.33 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1940 kg (4276.97 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 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 | 1428 mm (56.22 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2800 mm (110.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1501 mm (59.09 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1491 mm (58.7 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | 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 |
The Mercedes-Benz W124 220 E remains a highly regarded vehicle among enthusiasts, celebrated for its engineering excellence, durability, and timeless design. Its legacy continues to influence Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to building high-quality, long-lasting automobiles.
