which engine did the 96 e300 diesel have?
 

I know it is a 3 liter diesel, is it the 603? Also, what about the 95 3 liter, same engine? I had a big list of all the 60X numbers, but I lost it when my computer crashed. :(

Both are 606's, non turbo. Subtle differences between the two. 96 IP is more computer controled.

the 606 is a reliable engine isnt it?

I'm bias'd.....;)

Mines at 217k with no troubles which is equal to or higher than many members 240d's and 300d's. Lots of new W210 members showing up recently with similar miles to mine. I would say as reliable as the 617.

Some might argue the jury is still out because of unknowns with the longevity of the electronics.

I too have a 96 e300d with 204,000 on it, bought it used about 5 months ago, and so far so good. The question I have is that I went on line to purchase an intake manifold gasket, and on a number of sites, they come up with 2 different gaskets for the same model and year. I will have to see if I can get a peek at the engine plate, but I believe it is located on the right hand side of the engine, below the cylinder head looking into the engine compartment. That area is a little congested, so I may have to use mirrors to get a look without taking off some of the engine parts. Thanks for any info you can provide.

They will give you a Chassis number range on each part.

The last 6 digits of your vin is your chassis number. Pick the one yours falls within.

IIRC, some of the earlier 606.912's had a fiber gasket and later models used a metal one.

Thank you very much for the info you provided, and I appreciate you taking the time to provide an answer to my post.

The 96 isnt a turbo is it.

95 W124 606.910 no turbo
96/97 W210 606.912 no
98/99 W210 606.962 yes