buying advice sought ...

[flagstaff]

am looking to 'upgrade' my 190e to a W124 model, as the kids are growing and rear legroom is at a premium in the baby benz. i was wondering, what size engine is the best to go for in terms of power/fuel economy ... 2.6, 2.8, 3.2?? i'm pretty much ruling out the 2.0 and 2.2, on the grounds that this bodyshell will need a bit of grunt to get off the mark! many thanks for any pointers, experiences etc

 

[wiggy]

just got me a 220e coupe, no good for the ankle biters but SURPRISINGLY!!!! spritely for a big car, not dissapointed with the 2.2 in the slightest, 115k and sounds like a sowing machine!

 

[flagstaff]

i'm well jealous wiggy, i love those coupés, but like you say too small as a family motor ... hope you're enjoying yours!!

ps i think you mean 'sewing' machine ... we wouldn't want merc engines to be associated with agricultural levels of refinement now would we

 

[heckflosse]

I also had a E220 coupe and agree with Wiggy about the rear leg room. The car was supprisingly quick and would hold it's own with the GTI's at the lights. It was also good on fuel returning 28mpg Urban which for some strange reason was 3 mpg better than my old C180.
However if I was in your shoes and had kids I'd go for a diesel estate.

 

[flagstaff]

thanks heckflosse ... i admit that the idea of an estate seemed a good one to me also. i came across a 1989 300TE that had been converted to LPG, full service history and a good price ... BUT the kids hate estate cars (well the boys do anyway), and as we often take the train thru the channel tunnel (ticket is free thru work), LPG is a no-no also. i think i've settled on one of the later W124 24-valvers, saloon (the boot looks big enough) ... the only hurdle now is to find a good one. still and all, i really love the 190E and will hate to part with it.

 

[jaymanek]

Hi mate,

i had an e220 coupe and a cabriolet and agree with everyone above.

I know of a reallly nice E320 saloon for sale. Its in almandine with black leather and really does look and drive mint. I was driving it all weekend and awesome power even with 4 overweight passengers.....I can get more info as its in the family, he may even take a p/x with ures if u need... i can ask..
Im at jaymanek@hotmail.com if yuor interested..

Cheers

Jay

 

[mjtray]

Hi,

I have an E280 1993 and love the engine on this car...its the M104 engine. Very smooooooth and sounds great when you open it up. I much prefer the 6 cylinders to the 4's....thats not knocking the 4's as they too are pretty good engines

The 280 produces just shy of 200 bhp which isn't too bad for an 10 year old car and apart from needing to get the head gasket changed on these engines from 110,000 miles + they run and run and run.

Fuel consumption is @ 28 mpg.

Just got back from a 2000 mile round trip to the Alps and its probably the most comfortable Merc I've had.

Cheers

 

[kensalriser]

Interesting thread - I'm thinking of picking up a 124 to go to the continent in next year and was trying to weight up all the different types. Looking at something over 10 years (classic insurance at a fifth of the price can't be beaten!) and wondering how much more refined/comfortable the six cylindered models are. Is two grand a realistic price for a decent one? I've noticed that low mileage models are rare.

 

[mjtray]

Kensalriser,

See my comments above re my thoughts on the 6 cylinders. Personally, I would not think that you will be able to pick up a low mileage 124 for £2k......it will most likely be high mileage with an incomplete service history.

I would prefer to have piece of mind and spend a bit more and get the all important service history. If it comes with service history I would not be afraid of buying a car with heavy mileage, as these cars are built to take it....if you check out the American bulletin boards, you will often see owners with in excess of 200k miles and their cars are still going strong.

Good luck

 

[kensalriser]

Hi MJ, been doing a little more small ad research today and notice quite a big discrepancy in asking prices, which seem to range from £1200 to £4000 for '88-'92 vehicles, with a distinct drop off circa 1990. Oddly, the 260 and 300 seem to go for less than the 230, something to do with running and insurance costs maybe.
I agree about mileage and history, but of course the single most important thing is condition and there's never a substitute for using your own eyes.
I'm not sure I would want a four cylinder with high mileage, though on a six I'd be comfortable up to 125k.

 

[Spike]

Its all about condition and history with these... Prices fluctuate wildly which can help in getting a bargain if you use it to your advantage.

I managed to get a 1 owner 1991 W124 CE (which is fine with two kids) with full MB history and low mileage for £2k. They are out there, just take your time.

 

[kensalriser]

Outstanding Spike, did it come with four wheels and some seats!
Seriously, what engine and interior does it have? I'm guessing it was a private sale.

 

[Spike]

Private sale...yes

Its a little 230 Had biscuit cloth when I bought it - now red leather

Here's the day I bought it, a bit basic but sound and well maintained - except for the paintwork which was rather tired.

Here's the interior change got the complete interior for £50

...and here it is today....Im getting there slowly but surely and having fun doing it :wink:

 

[kensalriser]

I'm guessing that post interior change your friends refer to it as the pimpmobile!
Nice though - I'll give you £2050 for it :lol:

 

[Spike]

ROTFL @ "the pimp mobile" You wouldnt believe how close you are .....