Originally Posted by 2.5Turbo

602.962

5 cylinder

Iron block

Aluminum head (essentially a 603 with one cylinder lopped off)

It doesn't have too much of a reputation in the US, because there weren't that many cars imported with them. The only two that I know of are the 190D 2.5(T) and the 300D 2.5T. As far as I know the 603 head problems are non existant on the 602, and there aren't any rod bending problems like on the 350SD(L).

It's a bit less powerful than a turbo 603. One less cylinder = less output. The 300D 2.5T is 121HP. I get a 0-60 of about 12. Tweaking the ALDA may get you faster. Better fuel mileage on the 602 however.

It's a great car, I haven't had any problems with the engine at all. Except a clogged ALDA line, but what diesel MB won't have that problem if left unchecked?

Watch out for overheating, since that will ruin the head in the same way as the 603. 1994 was the first model year with the 606; it was put into the E300D without a turbo with I think in the neighborhood of 135HP or something.