m103 vs m104
 

Can someone offer up a few ideas on going with the double overhead cam m104 engine (228hp) in an e300 sportline that has an m103 engine (177hp) installed? What are the basic changes needed to make this work? Specifically, will the transmission need to be changed/ upgraded, and will the motor mounts stay the same? An overview of all major areas appreciated.....

ECU swap, Ignition Module (EZL) swap, motor mounts should be the same.

Trans swap is a must, go for a 5 spd manual, if you can find one ;)

Also, change the rear diff out !

Is the trans swap a must because it would be "stupid" to go for the deal without going for the performance increase of a manual transmission? Or is it truly going to be too much power for the automatic?

Same question for the rear end>

Thanks

I would have to say that it is better for performance reasons.

The auto "slushbox" would inhibit the performance you are seeking.

IMHO!;)

I think later M104s use Bosch HFM instead of Bosch KE-Jetronic. There's a lot of electronics to transfer over if you're switching to HFM.

Sixto
91 300SE
87 300SDL
83 300SD

Larry Bible and I discuss this periodically.

Unless you can get an entire donor car, I think you would be better off starting with a M104 car and making it a Sportline.

My scheme is a little different - I want to use my the 5-speed, clutch, pedals, etc. from my ageing 300E in a M104 car.

The '90-'92 M104 engines were 3.0 liters, had 24 valves, and used the same KE-Jetronic.

The '93 and later M104 engines were 3.2 liters, used the all electronic HFM, and have variable valve timing.

Do a search on member name ke6dcj (Neil). He dropped a C36 M104 into his 88 300TE. It's not something you do in your garage in your spare time if you want to get it running and tuned in this lifetime... unless you're Steve Brotherton or someone like that.

Sixto
91 300SE
87 300SDL
83 300SD