PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post - making the switch from w123 diesels to W124 gassers?

pj67coll · #3 01-12-2015, 08:41 PM

I'm in almost the exact opposite position as you to a certain extent. As I'm trying to get back in to 123's because I'm sick of the cost and bs complexity of more modern vehicles. I also like the idea of a 123 wagon but agree that really decent examples are few and far between. I'm thinking that in your area, Seattle? rust may be a bigger problem on 124's than on 123's but that's just based on anecdotal evidence. No real experience to back it up. If you are really looking at other family related options then I'd suggest looking for an older Suburban. You can get some pretty decent examples around here for less than 4K's. The only really major flaw I'm aware of on the 96 thru 99 Vortec engined ones are head gasket failures that can result in destroyed engines. If this is taken care of there seems to be little else to be seriously worried about and I've test driven about ten of them over the last few years all around 200K miles that seemed to drive like new. You will never find a better vehicle for family travel in my opinion. Especially if you really need space and you can find one with a front bench which gives a capacity of nine.

Other than that have you considered a 210 wagon instead of a 124? Rust may be a problem where you are for them as well, especially with the spring perch abombination, but other than that they seem to hold up well and have quite a few positive comments from folks.

I know the 124's have a loyal following and they may be a more refined car than the 123. But for myself I find it hard to see beyond the pinnacle of development that I regard the 123 as being.

No doubt others will chime in with their opinions but that's mine, for what it's worth...

- Peter.