I've tried an S123 (300TD) and an S124 (300TE) and I must say, the 300TE is much more practical and usable because of its modern nature yet classic/traditional styling and functionality. The S123's are a thing of beauty, no doubt. They have the charm of a true W123 workhorse due to the extra cargo capacity yet timeless and classic looks. On the other hand, the S124 exudes a more modern feel, albeit not as "solid" but just as tough of a feeling as the S123.

The S124, at least here in the US, also had a ton of options that the S123 could dream about - the S124's typically already had a third row seat standard and still have the cargo space in the back. On the other hand, the S123 often had the third row seats as optional, and if so the second row seats had no headrests. Of course they can be added later on but for a price, while the S124's typically had them standard.

I like what MB did to the S124 when backing up, and the wipers are on. The rear wipers automatically turn on as well. The S124 also has better cabin illumination (4 rear dome lights in the S124 vs 1 in the S123). I like the close-assist function of the S124 too, this way you don't have to slam on the tail gate like in the S123. The additional puddle lights under the doors, coupled with the abundance of cabin lighting (mentioned above) also add convenience during nighttime ingress and egress. At least in the later S124's, I like how they used the leather map pockets instead of the netting. This proves more durable in long term use.

I didn't like how they placed the rear speakers on the rear doors, I've never seen intact door speaker covers because of this. In the S123 it was placed high above the car, by the tailgate headliner. I think the S210 had the best positioning of the speakers, on the rear doors but near the footwell area.

I also like how the S124 had a better tail light design with the reverse lens included with the assembly. No more busted or scraped lenses to worry about! The S123's tail lights seemed too low for me especially when the brake lights were applied. Having no third brake light, this presents a dangerous situation today. The W123 sedan and coupes are the same but at least you can install additional brake lights (brake light mod) or a third brake light from a W124/W201/W126.

The w123 Diesel engine is more reliable than the w124. That said the w124 engine is still more reliable than most other cars...

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1985 300D
1985 Vanagon Westfalia
1980 Honda CB750k
1998 Honda Civic

I think that position is all relative. The 603 is a very good motor and same with the 617.

But keeping with the topic, a w124 wagon (especially a TD) hands down runs circles around the s123 and would be my choice.



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1983 123.133 California
- GreaseCar Veg System