Positioning:
Premium Executive Sedan
Competitors:
BMW 5 Series (E34), Audi 100/A6 (C4), Lexus LS400
Design Philosophy:
Solid build quality, refined ride, understated luxury, advanced engineering for the era.
Platform:
W124 platform, renowned for durability and engineering excellence.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Transmission
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Hydraulic & ABS)
Electrical:
12V Electrical System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Engine Control Module (ECM), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC System, Exterior/Interior Trim
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks/Changes
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake Component Replacement, Suspension Repair, Electrical Component Troubleshooting/Replacement
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Component Testing, Fault Finding Procedures
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of Mercedes-Benz specific special tools
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
3.2 Liters (3199 cc)
Horsepower:
217 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
228 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch KE-Jetronic (CIS-E) Electronic Fuel Injection with Lambda Control
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)
Valvetrain:
DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Bore X Stroke:
3.62 in x 3.37 in (92.0 mm x 85.0 mm)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition with knock sensor
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic
Optional Transmission:
5-speed Manual (rare for E320 in North America)
Automatic Transmission Model:
722.4 (upgraded from previous 4-speed)
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB Specification 236.1 (e.g., Mercedes-Benz ATF fluid)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not rated for this specific year/model, but W124 is known for structural integrity.
ABS:
Standard (Bosch ABS III)
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioning front seatbelts
Body Construction:
Integrated safety cage, crumple zones
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo cassette player, often with optional CD changer integration or premium sound system.
Climate Control Type:
Manual or optional fully automatic climate control (Klimaautomatik)
Traction Control:
ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation) was available as an option on some models.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; typically includes antenna for radio, potential for aftermarket Bluetooth integration.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions).
Major Service Intervals:
Refer to Service A/B intervals in manual; typically every 30,000 miles or 24 months for more comprehensive checks.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG, ACEA A2 or similar; viscosity typically 10W-30 or 5W-40 depending on climate. Refer to manual for specific MB approval.
Engine Oil Capacity:
7.4 US quarts (7.0 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., MB 325.0 or 325.5) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (DOT 4 LV) or DOT 3
Wiring Harness:
Degradation of engine wiring harness insulation (specifically around the ECU and underhood connectors) is a common concern due to age and material degradation.
Head Gasket:
While generally robust, head gasket failures can occur due to overheating or age.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant reservoir tanks can become brittle and crack; thermostat failures can cause overheating.
Fuel Distributor:
KE-Jetronic fuel distributor issues can lead to poor running conditions.
Climate Control:
Vacuum operated HVAC actuators and O-rings can fail, leading to climate control issues.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Pioneering automotive safety, engineering, and luxury since the early 20th century.
W124 Lineage:
The W124 chassis, introduced in 1984, was celebrated for its robustness, refined engineering, and technological advancements, evolving through several facelifts.
E320 Introduction:
The E320 designation replaced the previous 300E model for 1994, signifying the renaming of Mercedes-Benz sedans to reflect engine displacement.
Production Period:
1985-1995 (W124 Chassis)
Manufacturing Location:
Sindelfingen, Germany
