The Mercedes-Benz W124, produced from 1985 to 1996, represented a significant leap forward in engineering and design for the German automaker. The facelifted version introduced in 1989 brought subtle but important refinements to the already highly regarded platform. Among the variants offered was the 260 E 4MATIC, a sedan combining a 2.6-liter inline-six engine with Mercedes-Benz’s all-wheel-drive system. This model, produced between September 1989 and June 1991, aimed to provide enhanced traction and stability, particularly appealing to drivers in regions experiencing inclement weather. The W124 series, known for its robust build quality and longevity, established a benchmark for mid-size luxury vehicles and remains a popular choice among enthusiasts today.
Mercedes-Benz W124 260 E 4MATIC: A Detailed Overview
The W124 260 E 4MATIC occupied a crucial position in Mercedes-Benz’s lineup as a premium mid-size sedan. It was designed to offer a balance of performance, comfort, and safety, appealing to a broad range of buyers. The introduction of the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system distinguished it from rear-wheel-drive counterparts, providing improved handling and control in challenging conditions. While not initially a high-volume seller in the United States (the W124 was primarily a European market vehicle), the 260 E 4MATIC represented Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to technological innovation and driver security.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 260 E 4MATIC is the M 103 E 26 inline-six engine, a 2.6-liter (2597 cm3 or 158.48 cu. in.) naturally aspirated powerplant. This engine produced 160 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 220 Nm (162.26 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4600 rpm. The engine featured multi-port manifold fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its smooth operation and respectable power output. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio was 9.6 kg/Hp, and it delivered 61.6 Hp per liter of displacement. Power was delivered to all four wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took 10.7 seconds, while 0-60 mph was achieved in approximately 10.2 seconds. The vehicle had a maximum speed of 207 km/h (128.62 mph).
Design & Features
The W124 260 E 4MATIC retained the classic, understated elegance characteristic of Mercedes-Benz designs of the era. Its sedan body style offered seating for five passengers and featured four doors for convenient access. The 1989 facelift brought minor cosmetic updates, including revised front and rear styling, contributing to a more modern appearance. Inside, the cabin was appointed with high-quality materials and focused on providing a comfortable and refined driving experience. Safety features were a priority, and the 260 E 4MATIC was equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) to enhance braking performance and stability. The vehicle’s dimensions included a length of 4740 mm (186.61 in.), a width of 1740 mm (68.5 in.), and a height of 1450 mm (57.09 in.). It rode on a wheelbase of 2800 mm (110.24 in.) and featured a front and rear track of 1497 mm (58.94 in.) and 1485 mm (58.46 in.) respectively. Standard tire size was 195/65 R15 on 6.5J x 15 inch wheel rims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | W124 |
| Generation | W124 (facelift 1989) |
| Type | 260 E (160 Hp) 4MATIC Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 1989 |
| End of production | June, 1991 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.4 l/100 km (17.6 US mpg, 21.1 UK mpg, 7.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 207 km/h (128.62 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 61.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 4600 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 4600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 103 E 26 / 103.940 |
| Engine displacement | 2597 cm3 (158.48 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.9 mm (3.26 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.2 mm (3.16 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1540 kg (3395.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2060 kg (4541.52 lbs.) |
| Max load | 520 kg (1146.4 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4740 mm (186.61 in.) |
| Width | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Height | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2800 mm (110.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1497 mm (58.94 in.) |
| Rear track | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Type of gearbox | 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 tire size | 195/65 R15 |
| Rear tire size | 195/65 R15 |
| Front wheel rim size | 6.5J x 15 |
| Rear wheel rim size | 6.5J x 15 |
The Mercedes-Benz W124 260 E 4MATIC remains a testament to German engineering prowess. Its combination of a refined engine, robust construction, and all-wheel-drive capability made it a desirable vehicle for those seeking a comfortable, safe, and capable luxury sedan. The W124 series, and the 260 E 4MATIC in particular, continues to be celebrated for its durability and timeless design.
