Segment:
Luxury Convertible Grand Tourer
Competitors:
BMW 8 Series Convertible, Audi Cabriolet models, Jaguar XJS Convertible
Target Audience:
Discerning buyers seeking refined performance, elegant styling, and the open-air driving experience.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential technical data for owners and independent mechanics to maintain and repair this classic Mercedes-Benz convertible.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, lubrication, cooling system, exhaust system
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (4-speed 722.4) service and repair
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic and parking), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Engine control unit (ECU), ignition, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, power seats, convertible top operation, starter, alternator, wiring diagrams
Body:
Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, convertible top system, seals
Maintenance:
Routine inspections, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, belt adjustments
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (OBD-I)
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake component replacement, suspension overhaul, electrical component repair
Calibration Adjustment:
Engine timing, fuel mixture, ignition timing, parking brake adjustment
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed troubleshooting and electrical diagnostics.
Description:
3.0 Liter (2960cc) Inline 6-Cylinder, DOHC, 24 Valve
Horsepower:
217 hp @ 5700 rpm
Torque:
268 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Injection:
Bosch KE-Jetronic Fuel Injection with Electronic Control Unit (ECU)
Octane Rating:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
System:
Digital Engine Control (DMC/Lambda Control)
Length:
Approx. 193.3 inches (4909 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.2 inches (1783 mm)
Height:
Approx. 54.1 inches (1374 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 109.5 inches (2780 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3700 - 3900 lbs (1680 - 1770 kg)
Crash Test Rating:
No specific NHTSA/IIHS ratings readily available for this specific convertible model from that era; generally built to high standards.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Acceleration Slip Regulation (ASR) on some models
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard, passenger airbag optional.
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up roll bar integrated into the windshield frame structure for enhanced rollover protection.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts
Audio System:
Original Becker Grand Prix or similar premium audio systems with cassette player.
Climate Control:
Automatic Climate Control (ACC) with manual override and diagnostic functions.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Original Features:
Pre-wiring for optional telephone, but no modern Bluetooth or infotainment integration.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 24 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) - use specified Mercedes-Benz plugs.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months, recommended fluid filter replacement at the same interval.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-30 or 5W-40, API SJ or higher, meeting MB 229.1 specification.
Coolant Type:
50/50 mix of Mercedes-Benz approved antifreeze/coolant and distilled water (MB Spec 325.0).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (DOT 4 LV) or DOT 3, meeting MB Spec 331.0 or 330.0.
Wiring Harness:
Degradation of insulation on certain wiring harnesses, particularly in the engine bay and convertible top mechanisms. Manual provides inspection and repair procedures.
Convertible Top Hydraulics:
Potential leaks or slow operation of the hydraulic system for the convertible top. Manual covers diagnosis and repair.
Mass Air Flow Sensor:
Can become dirty or fail, leading to poor engine performance. Manual provides cleaning and testing procedures.
Biodegradable Engine Wiring:
Some early biodegradable wiring harnesses can degrade. Manual details inspection and replacement.
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz, a marque synonymous with engineering excellence, luxury, and pioneering automotive technology since its inception.
Platform:
Based on the W124 E-Class chassis, known for its robust engineering and build quality.
Cabriolet Introduction:
The A124 Cabriolet variant was introduced in 1991, offering a luxurious open-top experience derived from the successful E-Class coupe.
Production Years:
1991-1993 (for the 300CE Cabriolet variant)