Early W124 vs Newer W124 - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

#1 08-31-2002, 03:26 AM

Curious.......

Just because the newer W124 6-cylinder models have DOHC, 24-valves, microprocessor controlled fuel injection and all that, it means it is quicker than the earlier models? Say we are comparing a 1994 E 280 against a 1989 300E, both stock standard. Both are very similar in terms of power and torque, with the E 280 only having around 10kws more than a 300E, and quite similar torque. My dad has a 300TE with nearly 300,000 miles on it but needs a complete engine overhaul and getting decent figures in terms of acceleration and stuff would not be fair.

Everyone is raving on about the earlier 300E's and how quick they are.

Please enlighten me!

Christian

1989 300TE
1997 C 200 Elegance
1994 E 280 (coming next week)

Michael · #2 08-31-2002, 07:19 AM

The very early cars were considerably lighter, and it's all about power:weight ratio. A 300TE, although a bit heavier, has lower (numerically shorter) gearing, so is quicker off the line but is gear-limited at the top end (whereas a 300E I believe is drag-limited for top speed; correct me if I'm wrong)

#3 09-01-2002, 12:47 AM

Well, im not sure, we have now both cars an E280 and a 300TE but the 300 starts off in second. The E280 starts from first and seems to be much quicker off the mark. But I dont know, the 300TE has this great snarl that the other car doesnt. See what happens

Christian

1989 300TE (we miss our 81' 280TE)
1994 E280 (I dont miss my 97' C200)

JCE · #4 09-01-2002, 03:54 AM

This thread may be of interest.

300E Performance Throughout the Years and Comparisons

#5 09-01-2002, 04:06 AM

Thanks for that....Still its really hard to know when u see one and which ones quicker etc.....

Poor us didnt get any w124 V8's in Australia because the couldnt fit the steering rack on the other side i believe

=(

Christian

1989 300TE
1994 E280