Original equipment sturs and shocks

[engrx2]

I am wondering if someone know who makes these struts and shocks and is it better to buy these or buy Bilstein.

original equipment

124 320 20 31 shock
124 320 51 30 strut


thanks

[MTI]

There has been discussions that MB contracted out to different companies at different times/production runs. Most OEM W124/201 struts and shocks seem to be Boge, although some folks have bilsteins. Given a choice, I'd go with the Bilstein Comforts.

[engrx2]

I can buy these shocks and struts for $325 (as compared to $525 from the dealer) but after reading the threads on this topic I am wondering if I should just pay another $100 and buy the bilsteins.

Another thing that I am concerned is that whenever I call the dealer to get a part they always ask for the VIN#, but if I buy it from somewhere else they don't care about the VIN#. Makes me wonder why.

[MTI]

Dealership VIN gives them the best info on the chassis, model and build date, which might make a difference if MB had a mid-year production change (usually electronics, brakes, etc.).

Bilsteins and Koni are the aftermarket shocks of choice. MB Sportline and some AMG shocks are Bils. The Comforts are the OEM replacement, the HD is designed for heavy loads, trailering and the Sports are for lowered cars.