Segment:
Executive Luxury Sedan
Reputation:
Renowned for build quality, durability, and sophisticated engineering.
Competitors:
BMW 5 Series (e.g., E34 525i/535i), Audi 100/A6, Lexus LS400 (higher segment but competed for luxury buyers)
Engine Durability:
The OM603 diesel engine is known for its robust construction and longevity.
Ride Quality:
Comfortable and composed ride, a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz engineering.
Safety:
Early adoption of safety features, including ABS and optional airbags.
Powertrain:
Engine (OM603.960), Fuel System, Turbocharger, Exhaust System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Automatic), Driveshift Assembly, Differential
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Hydraulic & ABS), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Battery, Charging System, Starter
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC System, Restraints (SRS)
Maintenance:
Routine Service, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks & Top-offs, Tune-ups
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake Component Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Charts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Fault Code Interpretation (where applicable)
Diagnostics:
Component Testing, Electrical Schematics, Mechanical Adjustments
Depth:
Expert Level: Covers detailed component removal, installation, overhaul, calibration, and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder Turbocharged Diesel
Displacement:
2996 cc (3.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
87.0 mm x 84.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
22.0:1
Power Output:
Approximately 134 hp @ 4600 rpm
Torque Output:
Approximately 195 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm
0 60 Mph:
Approx. 11-12 seconds (varies with condition)
Top Speed:
Approx. 120 mph (electronically limited or by design)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Inline Fuel Injection Pump (Mechanical)
Glow Plugs:
Pre-glow system for cold starts
Type:
4-Speed Automatic (722.4)
Features:
Hydraulic torque converter, electronically controlled shift points (K4P).
Type:
5-Speed Manual (G50/32, rare for diesel in US market)
Fluid Type:
MB 236.1 / Dexron III (check manual for precise specification)
Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 Liters (including torque converter, dry fill)
Length:
Approx. 4740 mm (186.6 in)
Width:
Approx. 1740 mm (68.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1430 mm (56.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2800 mm (110.2 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1600-1700 kg (3527-3748 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Approx. 2100 kg (4630 lbs)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 520 Liters (18.4 cu ft)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-Star (for 1994 Model Year, typical for W124 chassis)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags, if applicable for specific year/market)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional (ASR - Acceleration Slip Regulation)
Airbags:
Driver Airbag (Standard), Optional Passenger Airbag
Seatbelts:
Front Pre-tensioner Seatbelts, Rear 3-Point Seatbelts
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
Radio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player, often with CD changer option.
Speakers:
Multiple speaker system (door-mounted, rear parcel shelf).
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional electronic cruise control.
Antenna:
Power antenna, often integrated into the rear window or C-pillar.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first), using synthetic oil.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (diesel fuel filter).
Transmission Service:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles (fluid and filter change).
Engine Oil Spec:
API CJ-4/CI-4/CH-4, ACEA E7/E5/E3, MB-Approval 228.3 or 228.5 (for Diesel engines, check manual for specific viscosity like 5W-40 or 15W-40).
Coolant Spec:
MB 325.0 (Glysantin G05 or equivalent)
Wiring Harness:
Biodegradable insulation on engine wiring harnesses can become brittle and fail, leading to various electrical issues.
Head Gasket:
While generally robust, the OM603 can experience head gasket failures, especially if overheated or improperly maintained.
Climate Control:
Vacuum leaks in the climate control system are common, leading to malfunctioning HVAC modes and temperature control.
Oil Cooler Seals:
Leaking oil cooler seals can cause engine oil to mix with coolant.
Exhaust Manifold:
Cracked exhaust manifolds are a known issue, often due to thermal stress.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Pioneer in automotive engineering, renowned for luxury, safety, and durability since the early 20th century.
W124 Introduction:
Introduced in 1984 as the successor to the W123, representing Mercedes-Benz's 'most over-engineered car' era.
Facelift Impact:
The 1993 facelift (pre-cursor to E-Class naming) introduced significant styling changes, including smoother lines and updated interiors, which these 1994-1995 models embody.
Production Period:
1984-1995 (W124 chassis)
Production Location:
Germany (primary), various international assembly plants
E Class Naming:
The 1994 model year was the first year the W124 officially adopted the 'E-Class' designation.
