best years?

[andmoon]

Hi, I have jumped ship from w126 gas models. I am in search of a nice diesel to buy to tinker w/ wvo. Is the 5 cylinders more durable than the 6s? How about the 4 cylinder models? Certain years better than others?
Anyone selling in NJ area. I think I want to start w/ 123s but open to all models.


How about the bmw 524tds?


Thanks,
Don

[sixto]

The iron head engines (4 cyl and 5 cyl) are believed to be more forgiving than aluminum head engines (4, 5 and 6 cyl). You won't go wrong with any of them. The risk is buying someone else's problem which is more likely to happen with a 6 cyl aluminum head engine. There are rewards to offset the risk.

Start by deciding what body you want (W115, W116, W123, W126, W201, W124) then live with what engine comes in it. Here's a guide - http://home.hiwaay.net/~gbf/mbmodels.html

524tds don't get much respect around here. Folks seem to have a problem with timing belts. If you like to shift a turbodiesel engine and fabric upholstery you have to roll your own MB or get a 525td.

I like the 96-97 Passat TDI but not enough to live with shifting.

Sixto
95 S420
87 300SDL

[kggkgg]

I bought a 6 cyl alloy multivalve headed W124 OM606 with 50k miles and it now has 175k without a murmur of a problem. I think regular servicing is all they need to avoid problems.

[DieselAddict]

The only two engines that you want to be cautious about are the OM603 in the 87 300D and the one in the W140 chassis (92-95 300SD/S350D). The former has a weak aluminum head and the latter has weak connecting rods. The OM606 engine, the last of the indirect injection aluminum head engines found in the 95-99 E-class, seems to be the best of its kind when it comes to smoothness, power, economy and overall durability. The "other" kind (iron heads, pre-86) are also very durable, but lack in the other categories, though they have their own appeals, like simplicity and character.

[Hatterasguy]

Originally Posted by DieselAddict

The only two engines that you want to be cautious about are the OM603 in the 87 300D and the one in the W140 chassis (92-95 300SD/S350D). The former has a weak aluminum head and the latter has weak connecting rods. The OM606 engine, the last of the indirect injection aluminum head engines found in the 95-99 E-class, seems to be the best of its kind when it comes to smoothness, power, economy and overall durability. The "other" kind (iron heads, pre-86) are also very durable, but lack in the other categories, though they have their own appeals, like simplicity and character.

Well the 3.5L 603 was used in W126's as well. Any S class diesel from 1990 on has this engine in this country.

Also a 603 in a W124 with a 14 head will crack just the same as if it was in a W126.

Define "best" I would rate the 350SD as my personal favorite W126 diesel. With the 300SDL in a very close second.

As for "best" diesel it is hard to fault a turbo charged 606. Nothing like being able to drive a diesel car with some power.

[DieselAddict]

Originally Posted by Hatterasguy

Well the 3.5L 603 was used in W126's as well. Any S class diesel from 1990 on has this engine in this country.

Also a 603 in a W124 with a 14 head will crack just the same as if it was in a W126.

You are absolutely correct. I had a feeling I was leaving something out. I think I need to get more sleep!

[Hit Man X]

This here has some decent info too - Which one is better? HELP!

[andmoon]

Thanks folks.
Back to the hunt!

[Snibble]

Originally Posted by andmoon

Hi, I have jumped ship from w126 gas models. I am in search of a nice diesel to buy to tinker w/ wvo. Is the 5 cylinders more durable than the 6s? How about the 4 cylinder models? Certain years better than others?
Anyone selling in NJ area. I think I want to start w/ 123s but open to all models.


How about the bmw 524tds?


Thanks,
Don

TRAITOR!!!!!!!