I want to buy a another w124 and I want to make it into a 4x4 vehicle, this is my vision: I would like to lift it (and not crazy lift, just enough to give me decent ground clearance) and I want to customize the drive train, would prefer to remove the auto trans and find a manual transmission (not OEM cause they're rare as hell to find) that I can make fit. I also want to modify the drive train to allow for a 4x4 system, to have a transfer case up front, with manual locking hubs, install a snorkel, skid plates, aux lights, roof basket ect... Now I know there is a 4matic w124 but I don't want to deal with that, I'd rather have a basic mechanical 4x4 drive train that's not computer controlled.

The reason I want to do this with a w124 rather than just buying a 4x4 SUV or crossover is because I love the w124, it's safe to say it's my top choice vehicle, I've had it since I was 18, know them inside out and I just love them, my only issue with them was that I knew stock, they weren't that capable off road (for obvious reasons) and they are 99% auto trans. To have a w124 that could take me places off of the paved road with 4x4 capability and with a manual transmission...dream come true. Preferably would like the diesel motor but they're harder to find and I know the M103 pretty well too.

So aside from this being kinda What am I looking at finding a manual trans that would fit and customizing a 4x4 drive train, now I want this w124 to be rugged, I'm not worried about keeping it looking pristine because it's going to get dirty, I want to rip out carpets and stuff and just want it to be rugged so if things need to be removed because cutting and welding has to be done, it's all good you know? The lifting and little things like aux lights and stuff isn't a big thing to me but the trans and drive train I don't know where to start with that (well need to buy a w124 first haha)

Planning on buying a $800 one off of craigslist that's a little rough and slowly getting her to my goal. Could you all give me feedback on the trans and drive train? Maybe won't have to get the 4x4 drive train? Lifted with some BF Goodrich tires might suffice? Lol but I mean if I'm going to go, might as well go all the way haha Think this would be a cool project and the end result would be something I've always wanted out of my favorite car.

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76 MG Midget
78 Datsun 280Z
86 Peugeot 505
01 Subaru Outback

“Owning a car is like owning a dog. Every now and then, it craps on the carpet — but it’s still your dog.” - Jeremy Clarkson