The Mercedes-Benz C124 300 CE, produced between August 1987 and August 1989, represents a sophisticated iteration of the W124 series coupe. Positioned as a premium offering within the lineup, it bridged the gap between the more accessible 230 CE and the high-performance 320 CE. This variant, powered by the M103 E 30 engine and paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, aimed to deliver a blend of refined performance and luxurious comfort, appealing to buyers seeking a grand touring experience. The C124 chassis, known for its robust build quality and advanced engineering, solidified Mercedes-Benz’s reputation for building durable and elegant automobiles.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | W124 |
| Generation | C124 |
| Type (Engine) | 300 CE (180 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | August, 1987 |
| End of production | August, 1989 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.3 l/100 km (17.7 US mpg, 21.2 UK mpg, 7.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 220 km/h (136.7 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.7 kg/Hp, 129.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 161.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 180 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 225 Nm @ 4400 rpm (165.95 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 103 E 30 / 103.983 |
| Engine displacement | 2962 cm3 (180.75 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88.5 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.25 mm (3.16 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1390 kg (3064.43 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1840 kg (4056.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4655 mm (183.27 in.) |
| Width | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Height | 1410 mm (55.51 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2715 mm (106.89 in.) |
| Front track | 1497 mm (58.94 in.) |
| Rear track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | 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 |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 300 CE is the M103 E 30 inline-six engine. This 2.962-liter powerplant is characterized by its robust cast-iron block and aluminum cylinder head. The engine utilizes a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design, operating two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery is managed by a Bosch K-Jetronic multi-port fuel injection system, known for its reliability and precise metering. The M103 engine is renowned for its smooth operation and relatively high torque output. Paired with this engine is a four-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth shifts but lacking the responsiveness of a manual gearbox. This automatic transmission was a common choice for buyers prioritizing comfort and ease of driving over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 300 CE Automatic delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While the 180 horsepower engine provides adequate acceleration – 0-60 mph in approximately 8.1 seconds – it doesn’t offer the same exhilarating performance as the 320 CE. The automatic transmission, while smooth, can feel somewhat sluggish during quick overtaking maneuvers. The gear ratios are tuned for cruising comfort rather than aggressive acceleration. The car excels on long highway journeys, offering a quiet and composed ride. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic sacrifices some driver engagement but gains in ease of use, particularly in city traffic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 300 CE Automatic came standard with a generous array of features, reflecting its positioning as a luxury coupe. Standard equipment typically included power windows, power locks, a sunroof, and air conditioning. The interior featured comfortable cloth upholstery, although leather was available as an option. Dashboard design was typical of the era, with a functional layout and high-quality materials. Optional extras included automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and heated seats. The level of equipment often varied depending on the specific market and individual customer preferences.
Chassis & Braking
The C124 chassis is a significant engineering achievement, known for its exceptional rigidity and crash safety. The front suspension utilizes independent wishbones, while the rear features an independent multi-link setup, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and stability during hard braking. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over sharp handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 300 CE Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined engine, and luxurious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission detracted from the driving experience compared to the manual versions. Fuel economy was reasonable for the time, but not exceptional. Compared to the 230 CE, the 300 CE offered a significant performance upgrade, while the 320 CE provided even more power but at a higher price point. The 300 CE struck a balance between performance, luxury, and affordability, making it a popular choice among buyers seeking a sophisticated coupe.
Legacy
The M103 engine, found in the 300 CE, is known for its durability and longevity. With proper maintenance, these engines can reliably exceed 200,000 miles. The C124 chassis is also highly regarded for its build quality and resistance to corrosion. Today, the 300 CE Automatic is a sought-after classic car, appreciated by enthusiasts for its timeless design and engineering. Parts availability is generally good, although some specific components can be difficult to find. Well-maintained examples command a premium in the used car market, reflecting their enduring appeal and reputation for reliability.
