The Mercedes-Benz S124 (facelift 1989) 320 TE represents a high-water mark in the celebrated W124 series, a lineage produced from 1984 to 1996 that cemented Mercedes-Benz’s reputation for engineering excellence. The W124 family encompassed sedans, coupes, convertibles, and station wagons (S124), with the 320 TE being a particularly desirable variant. Introduced as part of the significant 1989 facelift, and specifically powered by the M104 3.2-liter inline-six engine from July 1992 to July 1993, this model exemplifies the W124’s peak in powertrain refinement and technological advancement before the introduction of the E-Class designation. The S124 320 TE was a premium executive station wagon, primarily aimed at the European market, but appreciated globally for its robust construction and sophisticated driving dynamics, offering a compelling combination of space, luxury, and performance.
Engine & Performance of the Mercedes-Benz S124 (facelift 1989) 320 TE
The heart of the Mercedes-Benz S124 (facelift 1989) 320 TE is the M 104 E 32, a 3.2-liter (3199 cm³ or 195.21 cu. in.) naturally aspirated inline-six gasoline engine. Designated with the code M 104.992, this engine was a substantial improvement over earlier Mercedes-Benz powerplants. It featured a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, a configuration considered advanced for its time, allowing for improved volumetric efficiency and smoother operation.
This engine produces 220 horsepower at 5500 rpm, equating to 68.8 horsepower per liter. Torque output is equally impressive, delivering 228.64 lb.-ft. (310 Nm) at 3750 rpm, providing strong pulling power throughout the engine’s operating range. Power is transferred to the rear wheels via a smooth-shifting 4-speed automatic transmission, a reliable and commonly used unit in Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era.
Despite a substantial curb weight of 3505.35 lbs. (1590 kg), the 320 TE offers surprisingly agile performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes a brisk 7.6 seconds, and it achieves a top speed of 136.7 mph (220 km/h). This performance positions it within the realm of sporting executive cars, capable of comfortable high-speed cruising and confident overtaking. The weight-to-power ratio is 7.2 kg/Hp, or 138.4 Hp/tonne, demonstrating the effectiveness of the M104 engine. Fuel economy, while not a primary consideration for a luxury vehicle of this type, was rated at 16.1 US mpg in city driving and 25 US mpg on the highway, representing a reasonable balance between power and efficiency for a large-displacement inline-six.
Design & Features
The design of the Mercedes-Benz S124, particularly after the 1989 facelift, embodies a timeless elegance that remains highly regarded today. The station wagon, or “estate” as it’s known in Europe, retains the W124’s clean lines and understated sophistication. It’s a five-door body style with seating for five, and an optional third-row, rear-facing seat was available in some markets, increasing its versatility.
The S124 measures 187.6 inches (4765 mm) in length, 68.5 inches (1740 mm) in width, and 58.62 inches (1489 mm) in height, with a generous 110.24-inch (2800 mm) wheelbase. This provides a spacious and comfortable cabin, with the cargo area being a key selling point for the station wagon variant, making it ideal for families, outdoor activities, or professionals needing substantial load capacity.
Beneath the elegant exterior, the S124 320 TE features a sophisticated chassis. The front suspension utilizes a wishbone design, while the rear employs an independent multi-link suspension. This setup, praised for its ability to balance ride comfort with stable handling, was a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz engineering. Braking is provided by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, enhanced by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), a crucial safety feature for the early 1990s. Steering is a hydraulic power-assisted cone worm system with recirculation balls, offering precise and predictable control. The vehicle rides on 195/65 R15 tires mounted on 6.5J x 15-inch wheel rims, providing a comfortable ride and adequate grip.
The W124’s interior is a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to quality and ergonomics. High-grade materials, precise fit and finish, and a logical control layout define the cabin. Typical features, depending on market and options, included automatic climate control, power windows, central locking, and a premium audio system. Safety was also a priority, with a robust passenger cell, seatbelt pre-tensioners, and driver-side airbags becoming standard or optional during its production run.
Technical Specifications
| Category | Specification |
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | W124 S124 (facelift 1989) |
| Type (Engine) | 320 TE (220 Hp) Automatic |
| Production Start | July 1992 |
| Production End | July 1993 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 14.6 l/100 km (16.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.6 seconds |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8 seconds |
| Maximum speed | 136.7 mph (220 km/h) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.2 kg/Hp (138.4 Hp/tonne) |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm (195 Nm/tonne) |
| Power | 220 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per liter | 68.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 228.64 lb.-ft. (310 Nm) @ 3750 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 104 E 32 / 104.992 |
| Engine displacement | 3.2 liters (3199 cm³, 195.21 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 3.54 in. (89.9 mm) |
| Piston Stroke | 3.31 in. (84 mm) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.93 US qt (7.5 l) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.51 US qt (9 l) |
| Kerb Weight | 3505.35 lbs. (1590 kg) |
| Max. weight | 4850.17 lbs. (2200 kg) |
| Max load | 1344.82 lbs. (610 kg) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 19.02 US gal (72 l) |
| Length | 187.6 in. (4765 mm) |
| Width | 68.5 in. (1740 mm) |
| Height | 58.62 in. (1489 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 110.24 in. (2800 mm) |
| Front track | 58.94 in. (1497 mm) |
| Rear (Back) track | 58.94 in. (1497 mm) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Front wheel tires | 195/65 R15 |
| Rear wheel tires | 195/65 R15 |
| Front wheel rims | 6.5J x 15 |
| Rear wheel rims | 6.5J x 15 |
Legacy and Market Impact
The Mercedes-Benz W124 series, and particularly the S124 station wagon, enjoys an almost legendary status in the automotive world. It is frequently cited as one of the last “over-engineered” Mercedes-Benz vehicles, a testament to the brand’s commitment to durability, reliability, and superior build quality during that era. The Mercedes-Benz S124 (facelift 1989) 320 TE, with its powerful M104 engine, is a prime example of this philosophy. Its relatively short production run with this specific engine (1992-1993) makes it a somewhat rarer and more sought-after model among enthusiasts today.
In its primary market, Europe, the S124 320 TE competed with other premium executive wagons such as the BMW 5 Series Touring (E34 generation), the Audi 100 Avant (C4 generation), and to some extent, high-end Volvo 940/960 models. While each competitor offered its unique blend of attributes, the Mercedes-Benz stood out for its unparalleled ride comfort, robust engineering, and perceived longevity. It was a vehicle that exuded quiet confidence and understated luxury, often favored by professionals and affluent families who valued practicality without sacrificing prestige or driving pleasure.
The W124’s reputation for mechanical resilience means that many examples are still on the road today, often with incredibly high mileage, a testament to their original design and construction. The S124, in particular, has maintained strong appeal in the classic car market, with well-preserved examples commanding respectable prices. Its historical significance lies in representing the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz’s traditional engineering values before the company began to embrace more cost-effective manufacturing processes in later generations.
The 320 TE variant, with its potent inline-six, perfectly embodies the W124’s dual nature: a practical, family-friendly vehicle during the week, and a swift, comfortable long-distance cruiser on weekends. Its legacy is one of a benchmark executive car, a vehicle that set standards for safety, comfort, and engineering excellence that few rivals could match. It remains a beloved classic, cherished for its driving experience, its timeless aesthetics, and its enduring reliability.
