Watch for wire-harness issues in the '90s, most have been upgraded/replaced, but not all of them.

If you're considering a gas 124, SERIOUSLY consider the '94/'95. The wagons aren't that pricey, and the differences are substantial in comfort, appearance, safety, power, mileage, ... did I mention POWER?

The M104 has IIRC around 35hp more, and MUCH more torque. Because of the much higher torque, it gets taller 2.65:1 gears. Also a 1st-gear-start transmission. Floor it on dry pavement and you'll smoke 'em for a good 300', I beat one of my '94s all winter (it was a ratty auction-buy beater) and it would bring tears to your eyes laughing, 3rd gear runs out at 126mph IIRC, limited electronically to 135 or something like that. Lots of power. On top of that, the engine's 4-valves and EFI / MAS system is more efficient, better MPGs. Same rock-solid bottom end as the M103 and much is interchangeable from the early engines and transmissions.

Interior changes include the standard passenger airbag, nicer seats, center-console storage box, storage armrest, 2 electric mirrors, better stereo, FACTORY R-134 A/C that blows good and cold unlike R-134a converted earlier cars, bigger alternator, probably other things I'm missing.

Exterior has the late-124 body cladding but an updated grille-hood with body-color bumpers, clear turns in the front and rear look more modern, and best of all is the Euro-type headlamps that are all glass, look and perform like the Euro lights instead of the dismal US lights on the '86-'93 cars. You also get the 8-hole wheels that look nicer (IMO) and are much easier to keep clean with rolled front fenders for bigger meat if you choose to install wide stuff (I'm running 16x8" wheels).

All of this in '94. If the '86-'92 124 was a great car (it was/is), the '94/'95 124 is so substantially improved that it is hard to understand the refinement of great unless you have a chance to drive and look one over. The headlamp upgrade alone is IMO worth $500 difference (price Bosch Euros new, plus the filler panels, plus wiring, ...).

If you are a little brave, the ASR is a nice upgrade when working properly (traction control, but it also means an ABS upgrade to 4-channel and wear sensors all-around and a drive-by-wire that feels great). Be sure that the wire harness is good. My ASR cars have been extremely dependable and controlling that extra power in the wet is handly.

__________________

Gone to the dark side

- Jeff

Charlie,
Be prepared to travel to get the car. It is very unusual to find what you want close to home!!

It took me nearly 3 years to find the wagon I wanted down here. Was worth the wait & the 600 mile drive to look at it.

I looked at a couple of w123's & 124 wagons before I found what I was looking for.

Trying to move away from a diesel will have serious withdrawal symptoms!
Best you start looking for a good therapist soon if you are serious !!!

LOL

__________________
Grumpy Old Diesel Owners Club group

I no longer question authority, I annoy authority. More effect, less effort....

1967 230-6 auto parts car. rust bucket.
1980 300D now parts car 800k miles
1984 300D 500k miles
1987 250td 160k miles English import
2001 jeep turbo diesel 130k miles
1998 jeep tdi ~ followed me home. Needs a turbo.
1968 Ford F750 truck. 6-354 diesel conversion.
Other toys ~J.D.,Cat & GM ~ mainly earth moving