Segment:
Executive Coupe / Grand Tourer
Brand Perception:
Luxury, Engineering Excellence, Durability, Performance
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series Coupe (E30/E36), Audi Coupe, Porsche 944
Design:
Iconic W124 Coupe styling, frameless doors, pillarless hardtop effect, robust build quality.
Engineering:
Over-engineered for longevity, exceptional ride comfort, precise handling for its class.
Target Audience:
Mercedes-Benz Owners, Independent Repair Shops, Automotive Technicians
Engine:
M103.980 3.0L Inline-6 SOHC (24-valve variants may also be referenced)
Fuel System:
Bosch KE-Jetronic Fuel Injection (Electronic/Mechanical Hybrid)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition System (EZL)
Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (722.4) / 5-speed Manual Transmission (G3/27)
Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
Suspension:
Front Independent with MacPherson Struts, Rear Independent Multi-link
Steering:
Recirculating Ball Power Steering
Brakes:
Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Solid Discs, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Electrical System:
12V System, Battery, Alternator, Starter, Fuses, Relays, Lighting, Instruments
Body And Chassis:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Sunroof, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Seats
Climate Control:
HVAC System, Air Conditioning, Heating, Ventilation
Exhaust System:
Exhaust Manifold, Catalytic Converter, Mufflers
Cooling System:
Radiator, Fan, Water Pump, Thermostat, Coolant
Safety Systems:
Seat Belts, Airbags (if equipped in later models/facelifts, though rare for this specific year range)
Maintenance:
Oil Change, Filter Replacement, Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Belt Inspection and Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures for Engine Performance, Electrical Faults, Transmission Issues, HVAC Problems
Repair:
Engine Component Overhaul, Transmission Rebuilds, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement
Calibration And Adjustment:
Ignition Timing, Fuel System Adjustments (where applicable), Idle Speed Control
Component Removal And Installation:
Detailed instructions for removing and reinstalling all major and minor components
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, diagnostics, component-level repair, and major overhauls.
Diagnostic Codes:
Includes OBD-I codes and diagnostic procedures specific to the KE-Jetronic system.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for critical fasteners across all systems.
Clearances And Tolerances:
Specifications for engine component clearances, valve lash, etc.
Special Tools:
Identifies and describes necessary special tools for specific procedures.
Configuration:
3.0L (2962cc) SOHC Inline 6-cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
88.5 mm x 80.25 mm
Horsepower:
180 hp @ 5700 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
188 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (approx.)
Injection Type:
Bosch KE-Jetronic Electronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)
Oil Capacity:
8.0 Liters (8.5 Quarts) with filter change
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for specific climate recommendations)
Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (722.4)
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (G3/27)
Automatic Features:
Lock-up Torque Converter for improved efficiency, Comfort/Economy mode selector.
Automatic Fluid Type:
Mercedes-Benz Specification 236.1 (e.g., ATF Dexron III compatible)
Manual Fluid Type:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 Gear Oil
Automatic Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 Liters (for complete overhaul/fill)
Manual Capacity:
Approx. 1.8 Liters
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,200 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 km (18,600 miles) or as needed based on inspection.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 40,000 km (25,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 40,000 km (25,000 miles) for standard plugs, or as specified for performance plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 50,000 km (31,000 miles).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Mercedes-Benz Specification 236.3 (ATF Dexron II compatible)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 10.5 Liters
Wiring Harness:
Degradation of insulation on wiring harnesses (especially in engine bay) leading to electrical issues.
Fuel Distributor:
KE-Jetronic fuel distributor leaks or malfunctions can cause rough idle or starting problems.
Headliner:
Sagging headliner due to adhesive failure over time.
Window Regulators:
Failure of window regulator mechanisms.
Rust:
Susceptible to rust in common areas like wheel wells, rocker panels, and door bottoms.
Transmission Cooling:
Automatic transmission cooling lines can corrode and leak.
Heritage Focus:
Pioneering automotive safety, luxury, and engineering for over a century.
W124 Introduction:
The W124 platform was introduced in 1984, with the coupe (C124) variant arriving in 1987.
300Ce Introduction:
The 300CE was launched in 1986 as a direct successor to the 280CE, featuring the M103 engine.
Facelift:
The W124 platform received a significant facelift in 1989, which included minor styling updates (e.g., revised bumpers, side skirts) and some interior revisions. The 300CE benefited from these updates.
Production Period:
1987-1992 (for C124 300CE)
Assembly Plant:
Sindelfingen, Germany
