The Mercedes-Benz W124, particularly the 300 D Turbo model produced from 1989 to 1993, represents a high point in mid-size luxury sedan engineering. This generation of the W124 benefited from a significant facelift in 1989, enhancing both its aesthetics and mechanical refinement. Positioned as a premium offering, the 300 D Turbo catered to buyers seeking a blend of performance, comfort, and the renowned durability associated with Mercedes-Benz diesel engines. While primarily a European market vehicle, the W124 gained a following in other regions due to its robust build quality and sophisticated engineering. This article details the specifications and characteristics of the facelifted 1989-1993 300 D Turbo variant.
The Mercedes-Benz W124 300 D Turbo
The W124 series, produced between 1985 and 1996, was intended as a successor to the W201 (190E) and W116 models. It aimed to bridge the gap between the compact 190E and the flagship S-Class (W126). The 300 D Turbo, introduced after the 1989 facelift, was a key variant, offering a turbocharged diesel engine for increased performance. The facelift brought subtle but important changes to the exterior, including revised headlights, grilles, and interior trim, improving the car’s overall appeal and modernity. The W124 was known for its exceptional build quality, safety features, and comfortable ride, establishing a benchmark for its class.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 300 D Turbo is its 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder diesel engine, designated OM 603 D 30 A / 603.960. This engine produces 147 horsepower at 4600 rpm and a substantial 273 Nm (201.35 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2400 rpm. The addition of a turbocharger significantly boosted power output compared to naturally aspirated diesel versions. Power per liter is rated at 49.1 hp/l. The engine utilizes precombustion chamber injection, a technology common in Mercedes-Benz diesels of the era, for efficient combustion and reduced emissions. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 10.9 seconds and a top speed of 202 km/h (125.52 mph). The 0-60 mph time is calculated at 10.4 seconds. The weight-to-power ratio is 10.1 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 5.5 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The W124 300 D Turbo is a four-door sedan with a classic, understated design. Its body style emphasizes practicality and elegance, typical of Mercedes-Benz’s design philosophy during the late 1980s and early 1990s. The car seats five passengers comfortably. Key features include ventilated front disc brakes and disc brakes on the rear, providing reliable stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety. The suspension utilizes a wishbone setup at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, delivering a smooth and controlled ride. Power steering, utilizing a cone worm and recirculation balls system, provides ease of maneuverability. The car rides on 195/65 R15 tires mounted on 6.5J x 15 inch wheel rims. The interior is characterized by high-quality materials and a focus on comfort, reflecting the car’s luxury positioning.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | W124 |
| Generation | W124 (facelift 1989) |
| Type (Engine) | 300 D Turbo (147 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 1989 |
| End of production | July, 1993 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.3 l/100 km (25.3 US mpg, 30.4 UK mpg, 10.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 202 km/h (125.52 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 147 Hp @ 4600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 49.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 273 Nm @ 2400 rpm (201.35 lb.-ft. @ 2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 603 D 30 A / 603.960 |
| Engine displacement | 2996 cm3 (182.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87 mm (3.43 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 22:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1490 kg (3284.89 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2030 kg (4475.38 lbs.) |
| Max load | 540 kg (1190.5 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 | 1428 mm (56.22 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2800 mm (110.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1501 mm (59.09 in.) |
| Rear track | 1491 mm (58.7 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | 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 |
| Tires size | Front/Rear: 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | Front/Rear: 6.5J x 15 |
The Mercedes-Benz W124 300 D Turbo remains a highly regarded vehicle, celebrated for its engineering excellence, durability, and refined driving experience. Its combination of a powerful turbocharged diesel engine, comfortable interior, and robust build quality ensured its popularity among discerning drivers seeking a long-lasting and reliable luxury sedan.
