Considering 400e Purchase - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

#1 10-12-2002, 06:17 PM

I'm really interested in purchasing a '91 or '92 400e. I currently have an '88 260e and an '88 560sl.

What do you guys and gals think about the 400e? Is it really that much more special than a 300e? What should I watch out for with the 400e engine. Is it as reliable as the straight six? When is the timing change due and is it as important to watch the chain as it is in the 560 engine?

Please let me know all your thoughts. I'm ready to take the plunge.

Michael B

suginami · #2 10-12-2002, 06:31 PM

The 400E's were sold as a 400E in 1992 and 1993. For 1994 and 1995, the grill / headlights were updated and the badge was changed to E420. The engine was basically the same. It was always a 4.2 liter engine.

There doesn't seem to be anything to look out for as far as problems, and are every bit as reliable as the six-cylinder models..

They run a little hotter than the six-cylinder models.

They have a lot more power than '86-92 300E's, and a bit more than '93-'95 300E / E320's.

The timing change recommendation is the same as the 560 SEL models at around 120,000 miles.

#3 10-12-2002, 06:37 PM

forgot to ask...

also, how does the 400e compare to the c280 in reliability, comfort, power, etc.

Thanks!!

suginami · #4 10-12-2002, 06:55 PM

The 400E is about a half a second quicker from 0-60 mph, and about a second quicker in the quarter mile.

The acceleration from 50 mph on up will feel enormously faster.

I suppose the reliability and comfort should be about the same, although most of the 94-95 C280's have the engine wiring harness problem, and some of the 92-93 400E's have a similar problem.

The C class is about a 7/8 version of the W124 E-class in size, and will probably handle slightly better due to its lighter weight. The E-class has about an inch more legroom upfront and a bit more in the back seat. Unless you're a big guy, I don't think you'll find the C class to be too small in the front, though.

The C280 engine is a 2.8 liter version of the M104 engine. The 1993 300E 2.8 shares the same engine. The 1993 300E (3.2) / 1994-1995 E320 / 1996-1997 E320 have a 3.2 liter version of this M104 engine.

400E · #5 10-12-2002, 08:27 PM

I've got 120k miles on mine and love it. Great fun to drive and very solid.

The M119 engine is often described as "bullletproof" and was also used for years in the S-class.

Be aware that many repair tasks are a bit more difficult with the larger engine in the W124 engine bay. When my starter was replaced (under warranty), for example, part of the front end had to be disassembled to get to it.