PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post - whats the best (1980-2000) mechanical injection mercedes turbo diesel and why

2.5Turbo · #9 02-28-2008, 01:47 AM

Only the 603.97x 3.5L engines bend rods. The 603.96x 3.0L engines don't, but most from 86-87 (the years they were imported to the US) have the #14 head which has the tendency to crack if overheated. Any 603.96x with a #17 head or higher is a good engine. If you want a good mix of fuel efficiency and power, do a 602.96x. If solid fuel efficiency is what you're after, the 601 mated to a 5 speed offered in the 190D 2.2 nets upwards of 40mpg.

The 60x engines have a crossflow head which offers more power and efficiency over the 617 head.

The 617 will be more tolerant to abuse like overheating. But compared to the 60x it will be louder, less powerful, less efficient, and harder to modify.

And I agree with the 606 crowd on this thread...get a 606 with a 603 IP and you'll have an engine that will be hard to beat in the MB diesel lineup, save the CDI's.