Hi. First time poster, long time MBZ fan. After years of driving one crappy American or Japanese car after another, I've decided to go get what I've always wanted.....a Mercedes-Benz. After surveying the market place, the W124's seem to have all the qualities that I've associated with the marque (bomb-proof reliablity, good if somewhat conservative looks, good resale values). I've located 3 124's in the region that meet my own requirements, and each has a clean CARFAX report.......a 91 300CE, a 93 300D and a 95 E320 Special Edition. Other than the diesel's lower fuel costs and the CE's possible future collectibility, are there any advantages/disadvantages from a maintenance/repair standpoint to any of these models?
Also, I'm trying to nail down the average yearly maintenance costs on these cars (all 3 are 1 owner cars with less than 60K on the odometer, they'll be used as daily drivers covering 15-18k annually, my current car has averaged $900-1000 per year).
Lastly, can any of you recommend an honest MBZ maintenance/repair shop in Monmouth County, NJ?
Any guidance or advice that you can offer is appreciated.
The 95 E320 comes with better stereo, updated looks (subjective), and burlwood. It's the latest 124 too...
but, it has the M104 3.2L 24V I-6, which is nice, but will need its head gasket replaced at some point and wiring harness too.
The W124s from 93+ (excluding the V8 400s and 500s, which had it from 92 onwards) have R134A A/C
The diesel is a very nice car and I've heard nothing but good stories about the engine. I drove one and that was still a fantastic car even though its AC was dead (the car was in pretty bad condition though)
The engine is a 2.5 L I-5 Turbodiesel - torquey and quiet
The 91 300CE has the older M104 3.0L 24V I-6 making 230hp or thereabouts. Headgasket as any M104 will be an issue if it hasn't been taken care of.
I think the coupe is the prettiest...
but try looking for a V8 400E / E420 for not much more (if any)
I suggest looking for a E400 or 420 . The V8 engines will probably cost more, but will definetly increase your enjoyment. The I6's are slow but fine for everyday applications. I own a 92/93 300E, and it rocks. I have had to replace many things: belts, radiator and hoses, ball joints, head gasket (expensive), so you have to decide if you can shell out the capital to sustain this german vehicle.
I to am a MB newbie! I am the lucky owner of a 95 E420! It has the 4.2L V8! what a machine! The power on this car is awesome and the fuel milage has been unbelievable for the area that I am in! What I love the most is that when driving up these long steep grades the car never downshifts!! It just drives right up the grade like it was a molehill. Like Holson said if ya got a few extra bucks hold out for the V8! You won't be sorry!!
Welcome to the forum and that is a top car you have there. Does your username have anything to do with the amount of smokies your car can do? (road conditions permitting of course - we wouldn't want to condone anything illegal would we).
Scrogg,
Welcome to you too, that is a fine selection of cars you have to choose from. I am sure you will let us know when you decide - and remember to post a pic ASAP.
Oh for goodness sake no ! we would not want to do nothing illegal!![] But as you know with a thourghbred you have to let them have there head once in awhile just so they don't stiffen up on ya!!!![][]All I do is JUST HANGON!!!!![][:0]
hahaha I believe you smokie, great new pic you have posted.
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