Differences between 1st Generation and 2nd Generation W126 - Page 3 - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

eatont9999 · #31 12-30-2013, 11:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by steh-fan

Does anybody know by chance whether the front Gen 1 window regulator can be used on a 2. Gen car??

I know the rears can be. I see no reason why the fronts would not work. Swap the entire regulator. The 2nd gen motors are different and not a direct swap into a first gen regulator housing. I believe the gear ratio is slightly different.

eatont9999 · #32 12-30-2013, 11:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by steh-fan

Along these lines, nobody mentioned the availability of ASD (=automatic locking differential) and ASR (= anti-slip regulation) on the W126.

ASD was available after 1987 for the 300SE/L
ASR I was available after 1987 for the V8 models,
ASR II was available after 1989 for all engines.

Another difference between Gen 1 and Gen 2 is the star emblem anchor on the trunk lid.
Gen 1 has a central screw, Gen 2 has three pins that are simply pushed in.

There was also an improved transmission after 87, an updated interior in 86, and 10 speaker becker available after 6/89, uprated seat heaters.
After 87 anti dive suspension was ditched in favour of more conventional set up.
Somewhen between 89-91 you lose the antenna switch.
Rear blind was available 90-91.
Gear lever lock was added in 91 so you couldn't shift without your foot firmly on the brake.

All the emblems are cheap plastic on the late 2nd gen as well. Kind of sad but that is the way they did it.

strelnik · #33 12-31-2013, 10:02 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by vstech

so, the 81 does not have it? that means you have a less complicated monovalve! cool!

I have still have lotsa problems with the monovalve and the whole vacuum system of the 126
Mine is a 91 350SDL.

Plus in 100,000 miles, I'll prolly put in a 617 and trans, they should drop in easily, no?

vstech · #34 12-31-2013, 10:54 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by steh-fan

Does anybody know by chance whether the front Gen 1 window regulator can be used on a 2. Gen car??

yes. direct bolt on. you need the entire regulator and motor, as mentioned. the drive gear is totally different between the two. why would you want to put in the older regulator though?

steh-fan · #35 01-07-2014, 04:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by vstech

yes. direct bolt on. you need the entire regulator and motor, as mentioned. the drive gear is totally different between the two. why would you want to put in the older regulator though?

Hi,

thanks for all the feed-back.
Indeed, it fits well, no problems installing it.

I swopped the whole unit with the motor, so I didn't run into the problem of differential gearing.

Why Gen 1 regulator? I had one lying around, actually from the junk yard, which was cheaper with the motor than buying a new regulator only.

I guess at one point, when I find a 2. Gen regulator, I switch again as I kept the motor from the old one. It's really not a difficult job.

steh-fan · #36 01-07-2014, 04:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by eatont9999

All the emblems are cheap plastic on the late 2nd gen as well. Kind of sad but that is the way they did it.

Good point. I noticed that, too.
Solid material on Gen 1, chromed plastic on Gen 2.

Other differences are the speakers and speaker covers in the back.
The option for speaker in the front doors (with additional amplifier under the rear seat).

Also, Gen 2 had heated windshield fluid tank, hose, and nozzles.

pulpo_ · #37 03-07-2022, 10:33 PM

Helo, so you cannot fit 14 Bundt wheels on a gen 2, correct?
Thanks
Ed

automch · #38 03-08-2022, 06:55 AM

Gen 2 wheels are direct bolt on to replace the 14" Bundt wheels. As are the larger front brake rotors and calipers.

Why would you want to put 14" Bundt wheels on a Gen 2 and replace the 15" wheels?

Quote:

Originally Posted by pulpo_

Helo, so you cannot fit 14 Bundt wheels on a gen 2, correct?
Thanks
Ed

t walgamuth · #39 03-08-2022, 09:07 AM

The 14" might work on the late 126 if you put on the smaller calipers first. The 15" rims will fit on the early 126 though (I believe).

JHZR2 · #40 03-12-2022, 09:10 AM

I saw in the OP that the gen 2 cars have better rustproofing. Based upon what info? Just experience? Was there some additional treatment done to them? I somewhat like the gen 1 better but rust is always a consideration with these…

dieselbenz1 · #41 03-12-2022, 10:07 AM

Galvanization of key areas became the norm by the mid 80's in car manufacturing and was thought that will be the end of rust on cars. I remember somewhat the advertisements. It was likely a result of using thinner metal?

Sugar Bear · #42 03-12-2022, 04:50 PM

My parents had a euro '81 380 SEL.

It had ABS, air bag drivers side only, dual row timing chain from the factory, power rear windows, manual front windows, city and rural horn loudness settings, cloth interior and a power reclining rear seat.