Fellow members, the deal is this:

I would like to acquire another 124T. The problem is that most used Ts here are mostly junk. Except for a fine well cared 1993 300TE-24 (Euro spec) with only 55,000 miles.

The problem is the engine it comes with: M104.980

I am deeply familiar with M103s and late M104s engines, I know all their + and - . The M104.980 was a transition engine between the M103s and proper M104.992, and I am not too familiar with it. In the U.S.A. it was only used on the 300CE from 1990 to 1992.

This is the feedback I am getting from techs here:

1/ M104.980 -> Transition engine in which M.B. did a horrible job. Noisy - Max torque and HP come at very high RPM, hence engine needs to be trashed all the time.

2/ Serious problems with wiring harness and valve seal. Redesigned components did NOT helped as much on this engine as it did on the 104.992

3/ High oil comsumption without clear causes to pinpoint a solution.

4/ One of the few M.B. engines that will definitely require an early major overhaul. Unlike M103s and 104.992s that could go on forever.

Do you agree with all or any of the above mentioned faults on the 104.980?

Anyone has anything "good" to say about this engine or should I just pass on it. Your opinions will be highly appreciated!

__________________
A. Rosich
CL 500, 1998
S 500 L, 1998
E 320 T, 1995 [Sadly sold ]