PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post

Greg in Oz · #9 12-01-2004, 08:31 PM

Jack,

I would suggest that at 445,000km, you have had a good run from your 260E. Yes, there is much debate as to whether the W210 is as good or better than the W124 (read the many threads on this and other forums). The M103 in your present car has a great reputation (although, still has some known problems). Perhaps the reputation of the M104 is not as good but it does offer better performance than the 103, especially against your 2.6. I believe the wiring harness issue was sorted by the time the W210 was released but there is still the head gasket issue and the various fuel injection components that seem to give trouble on the HFM engines.

My parents have both a W124 and a W210. Their 124 is a '93 E320 coupe (which has the same engine as you are considering) which they purchased used a few years back. Their 210 is a '96 E230 (with the reliable 2.3 M111 four cylinder) which they purchased new. They have only travelled about 135,000 and 115,000km respectively. The 124 has needed little apart from the dreaded engine wiring harness and a new water pump although it has the tell-tale signs of a head gasket oil leak. The 210 has needed little apart from a water pump and a differential pinion seal (while under warranty). Whilst my father likes the performance of the E320 (especially since his has the 5-speed auto) he prefers the ride comfort and handling of the E230. Whilst I am a real fan of the 124 and I certainly would not trade our '90 300TE for a W210 wagon, I am also prepared to admit the W210 does offer a better ride and handling than the W124. I do feel it lacks some of the build quality of the 124 though.

In your instance, it probably comes down to the fact you are ready for a change. If you were considering a W124 E320 as a replacement for your 260E I would perhaps suggest not to bother (on the other hand if you were looking at a mint condition, low kilometre '90 to '92 300E...). The move to the W210 E320 may be worthwhile though. You are fortunate in that you have known the car you are considering purchasing since new which should inspire confidence. Just be aware that the HFM M104 is not as simple to work on as the M103.

Greg