Just bought another W124 estate
Discussion
It seems I can't keep away from the things.
As I've posted before I made a spur of the moment decision to buy a Feb 1996 Tourmaline E320T with mushroom leather in June. That meant that my early Almandine 300TE had to go. Since it left I've realised that I miss a proper front grille (I should have listened to the wife when she suggested that I keep the 300TE as well as the E320T but there you go).
So, on Saturday I collect a blue/black 1992 230TE with black cloth and walnut, on 15 holes, yaay!
It's not perfect but it is pretty good. Largely rust free, just 1 jacking point needing work (other 2 are sound but a bit scabby at the end of the tube and the 4th, wierdly, is as new), and a very small spot starting at the very bottom of each front wheel-arch, which I hope I can arrest before they go any further, and that's basically it.
Interior is very good too, the trim on the window switch/gear selector is a bit cracked, but the seats are 100%, driver's seat bolster was repaired in the correct fabric some time ago. Even the radio ariel still works.
It has been de-gingered though, so I'll have to re-fit some orange indicators and side repeaters.
187k but with a pretty comprehensive history, last serviced in March with a gearbox fluid change last year.
£950.
It'l be a nice contrast to the E320. I wonder which of the 2 I'll end up preferring?
As I've posted before I made a spur of the moment decision to buy a Feb 1996 Tourmaline E320T with mushroom leather in June. That meant that my early Almandine 300TE had to go. Since it left I've realised that I miss a proper front grille (I should have listened to the wife when she suggested that I keep the 300TE as well as the E320T but there you go).
So, on Saturday I collect a blue/black 1992 230TE with black cloth and walnut, on 15 holes, yaay!
It's not perfect but it is pretty good. Largely rust free, just 1 jacking point needing work (other 2 are sound but a bit scabby at the end of the tube and the 4th, wierdly, is as new), and a very small spot starting at the very bottom of each front wheel-arch, which I hope I can arrest before they go any further, and that's basically it.
Interior is very good too, the trim on the window switch/gear selector is a bit cracked, but the seats are 100%, driver's seat bolster was repaired in the correct fabric some time ago. Even the radio ariel still works.
It has been de-gingered though, so I'll have to re-fit some orange indicators and side repeaters.
187k but with a pretty comprehensive history, last serviced in March with a gearbox fluid change last year.
£950.
It'l be a nice contrast to the E320. I wonder which of the 2 I'll end up preferring?
Edited by mccrackenj on Friday 9th November 10:21
Probably the 230. Pictures please.
These are brilliant cars and there is something about the simple ones. I can well understand why one is not enough. The 124, especially the T-Model, represents a peak in the design and construction of the motor car. They have all the virtues of a modern without the cheap and nasty build.
Our sensible, modern, fuel efficient, low mileage VW Golf TDI daily driver has just broken down in a way which I just cannot imagine would ever happen with a w124. My wife is running the E300 diesel T and I suspect I'll have to prise the keys out of her hands when the Golf is fixed. But frankly I can see the Golf getting the boot to be replaced by this: http://www.carandclassic.co.uk/car/C309412 . And I've just turned down a 600 SEL... but with the capital that's in the Golf it wouldn't be so much of an issue...
These are brilliant cars and there is something about the simple ones. I can well understand why one is not enough. The 124, especially the T-Model, represents a peak in the design and construction of the motor car. They have all the virtues of a modern without the cheap and nasty build.
Our sensible, modern, fuel efficient, low mileage VW Golf TDI daily driver has just broken down in a way which I just cannot imagine would ever happen with a w124. My wife is running the E300 diesel T and I suspect I'll have to prise the keys out of her hands when the Golf is fixed. But frankly I can see the Golf getting the boot to be replaced by this: http://www.carandclassic.co.uk/car/C309412 . And I've just turned down a 600 SEL... but with the capital that's in the Golf it wouldn't be so much of an issue...
Edited by r129sl on Thursday 8th November 07:11
r129sl said:
Probably the 230. Pictures please.
These are brilliant cars and there is something about the simple ones. I can well understand why one is not enough. The 124, especially the T-Model, represents a peak in the design and construction of the motor car. They have all the virtues of a modern without the cheap and nasty build.
Our sensible, modern, fuel efficient, low mileage VW Golf TDI daily driver has just broken down in a way which I just cannot imagine would ever happen with a w124. My wife is running the E300 diesel T and I suspect I'll have to prise the keys out of her hands when the Golf is fixed. But frankly I can see the Golf getting the boot to be replaced by this: http://www.carandclassic.co.uk/car/C309412. And I've just turned down a 600 SEL... but with the capital that's in the Golf it wouldn't be so much of an issue...
Love the red seats in that 230E, so much more interesting than grey or black!These are brilliant cars and there is something about the simple ones. I can well understand why one is not enough. The 124, especially the T-Model, represents a peak in the design and construction of the motor car. They have all the virtues of a modern without the cheap and nasty build.
Our sensible, modern, fuel efficient, low mileage VW Golf TDI daily driver has just broken down in a way which I just cannot imagine would ever happen with a w124. My wife is running the E300 diesel T and I suspect I'll have to prise the keys out of her hands when the Golf is fixed. But frankly I can see the Golf getting the boot to be replaced by this: http://www.carandclassic.co.uk/car/C309412. And I've just turned down a 600 SEL... but with the capital that's in the Golf it wouldn't be so much of an issue...
r129sl said:
Probably the 230. Pictures please.
These are brilliant cars and there is something about the simple ones. I can well understand why one is not enough. The 124, especially the T-Model, represents a peak in the design and construction of the motor car. They have all the virtues of a modern without the cheap and nasty build.
Our sensible, modern, fuel efficient, low mileage VW Golf TDI daily driver has just broken down in a way which I just cannot imagine would ever happen with a w124. My wife is running the E300 diesel T and I suspect I'll have to prise the keys out of her hands when the Golf is fixed. But frankly I can see the Golf getting the boot to be replaced by this: http://www.carandclassic.co.uk/car/C309412. And I've just turned down a 600 SEL... but with the capital that's in the Golf it wouldn't be so much of an issue...
I have a suspicion that you'll turn out to be right Jonathan. As I've said before the engine in the 320 is a giggle, but the early cars are just nicer somehow. Also - and in complete contrast to the views I've held on engines for many years - part of me thinks that a 4 cylinder is more 'correct' for a 'work-horse' like a W124 T-model somehow. A 6 is a bit, well, unnecessary.These are brilliant cars and there is something about the simple ones. I can well understand why one is not enough. The 124, especially the T-Model, represents a peak in the design and construction of the motor car. They have all the virtues of a modern without the cheap and nasty build.
Our sensible, modern, fuel efficient, low mileage VW Golf TDI daily driver has just broken down in a way which I just cannot imagine would ever happen with a w124. My wife is running the E300 diesel T and I suspect I'll have to prise the keys out of her hands when the Golf is fixed. But frankly I can see the Golf getting the boot to be replaced by this: http://www.carandclassic.co.uk/car/C309412. And I've just turned down a 600 SEL... but with the capital that's in the Golf it wouldn't be so much of an issue...
I suppose the ultimate accolade for the W124 is the fact that I just don't see them as old or semi-classic cars, they are, simply, cars. I used to be heavily into classic Rovers of the 1960s & 1970's and the 1st car that started that hobby was a 1977 P6 2200TC. When I bought that car it was 17 years old, but it was recognisably and demonstrably an old or classic car. The 230TE is almost 21 years old, the 300TE was 23, but I see them as just cars.
You may have to wait a bit for pics. I'll want to to a bit of serious cleaning followed by thorough rustproofing and then some valeting 1st. It'll not be taxed until 1 Dec anyway so that gives me 3 weeks to get it ready for a photoshoot. I'll pm you some 'before' shots if I get a chance to take a pic or 2 this weekend.
I can't see the car you've linked to as the link doesn't seem to work - but I suspect it's a smoke silver, early, manual 230 with a red interior?
I know what you mean about engines and having a prejudice in favour of a six but coming round to a four. A while ago a friend bought an orient red w123 230TE auto to match his orient red r107 500SL; I thought it would be seriously wanting for not being a 280 twin cam six. I picked it up from Scarborough for him and ran it every now and then until he could come up from London to get it. On another occasion, I drove it up from London so it would be available for him on a flying weekend visit, a journey I was dreading. And yet it was brilliant. The four cylinder's simplicity and honesty really suited the car and it flew up the M1 as the evening traffic thinned. I think I did Sheffield to Morpeth in two hours! Wife has already said, "maybe I should have got a nice 124 like you said". Nice words to hear!
I've fixed the link--the full stop was being included--and you're dead right, the manual 230E with red upholstery and s/s paint
I've fixed the link--the full stop was being included--and you're dead right, the manual 230E with red upholstery and s/s paint
Edited by r129sl on Thursday 8th November 07:13
One thing all home mechanics appreciate is the bonnet which locks when fully open
I found the bonnet on my Range Rover would tilt all the way back against the windscreen if you used an empty 5-litre plastic can to prop it a few inches. Then you could climb inside the engine compartment and hang your legs either side of the engine. The only drawback was that a powerful gust of wind would see you decapitated by the 50 Kg aluminium bonnet....
Nick Froome
I found the bonnet on my Range Rover would tilt all the way back against the windscreen if you used an empty 5-litre plastic can to prop it a few inches. Then you could climb inside the engine compartment and hang your legs either side of the engine. The only drawback was that a powerful gust of wind would see you decapitated by the 50 Kg aluminium bonnet....
Nick Froome
I've just bought these for what I consider is a very good price: http://www.camskill.co.uk/m95b0s703p98323/Continen...
They're being fitted today. They won the Which winter tyre test so I assume they are OK. Based on the last set of Conti winter tyres I had on my 320 TE (TS830), I wouldn't hesitate to run them all year round.
If you want summer tyres, then it's Michelin or Continental, I'm sure the Premium Contact 5 is as good as the 2, which has always seemed fine to me. I'm sure the Eco Contact wpuld be OK, too. Apparently these fuel saving tyres make a significant difference (in the order of 6% I read in some independent test).
They're being fitted today. They won the Which winter tyre test so I assume they are OK. Based on the last set of Conti winter tyres I had on my 320 TE (TS830), I wouldn't hesitate to run them all year round.
If you want summer tyres, then it's Michelin or Continental, I'm sure the Premium Contact 5 is as good as the 2, which has always seemed fine to me. I'm sure the Eco Contact wpuld be OK, too. Apparently these fuel saving tyres make a significant difference (in the order of 6% I read in some independent test).
I've always fitted Continental Premium Contact 2s but imagine the 5 will be as good. I like the softness of the PC 2 - it works well on a W124
The W124 is surprisingly tyre-sensitive. Your mother could tell the difference - mine couldn't, she doesn't drive
Re 4-cylinder cars, I prefer the E200 to the E220 - and the E300 Diesel to both of them. In many ways the E300 Diesel is the best W124 but jumping from a diesel into an E280 will make you a petrol convert all over again...
Nick Froome
The W124 is surprisingly tyre-sensitive. Your mother could tell the difference - mine couldn't, she doesn't drive
Re 4-cylinder cars, I prefer the E200 to the E220 - and the E300 Diesel to both of them. In many ways the E300 Diesel is the best W124 but jumping from a diesel into an E280 will make you a petrol convert all over again...
Nick Froome
bolide said:
I've always fitted Continental Premium Contact 2s but imagine the 5 will be as good. I like the softness of the PC 2 - it works well on a W124
The W124 is surprisingly tyre-sensitive. Your mother could tell the difference - mine couldn't, she doesn't drive
Re 4-cylinder cars, I prefer the E200 to the E220 - and the E300 Diesel to both of them. In many ways the E300 Diesel is the best W124 but jumping from a diesel into an E280 will make you a petrol convert all over again...
Nick Froome
Thanks Nick.The W124 is surprisingly tyre-sensitive. Your mother could tell the difference - mine couldn't, she doesn't drive
Re 4-cylinder cars, I prefer the E200 to the E220 - and the E300 Diesel to both of them. In many ways the E300 Diesel is the best W124 but jumping from a diesel into an E280 will make you a petrol convert all over again...
Nick Froome
A local branch of a national chain is advertising a pair of Conti Premium Contact 5s, fitted, balanced, VAT etc for £125, so I don't think there's any point faffing around for alternatives at that price - oh the joy of 195-65-15's
Interesting to hear our views on engines, I'm hoping a pre-facelift, black 230 with black cloth and 15s will be sufficiently different from a Tourmaline facelift 320 with leather on 8 holes to allow me to justify having both for a bit.
Edited by mccrackenj on Saturday 10th November 09:23
Splendid vehicles. I preferred the 230TE out of the four W124's I've had. A 1988 one in white. Wonderful thing - it was old when I got it but did a painless 60,000 (Making 230,000) before a woman in an XC90, on the phone, smashed into me on a roundabout and wrote it off in spectacular style. It held up well, protecting me and the kids in a way few 25 year old cars would
I must say - I like the simpler w124 models - 230 saloon, white, steels, beige inside, no A/C but with a sunroof. Ideal. Shame I just cannot afford a decent any more - being the appalling mechanic that I am I can't buy a car that needs work. I've actually just bought a 210 - 2001 facelift, Avantgarde 240 estate, leather - 90,000 - one owner and Merc FSH. Had all the bodywork, years MOT, mild service - done by my specialist mechanic I bought it through. £1750. Faultless so far and the drive is a revelation. Might well turn out to be rubbish though - I'll let you know. I know you can pay less but I think that unwise. Certainly it would be hard for me to get a decent W124 TE for that money.
W124's are worth the money they go for up to a point. I just don't have it at the moment!
I must say - I like the simpler w124 models - 230 saloon, white, steels, beige inside, no A/C but with a sunroof. Ideal. Shame I just cannot afford a decent any more - being the appalling mechanic that I am I can't buy a car that needs work. I've actually just bought a 210 - 2001 facelift, Avantgarde 240 estate, leather - 90,000 - one owner and Merc FSH. Had all the bodywork, years MOT, mild service - done by my specialist mechanic I bought it through. £1750. Faultless so far and the drive is a revelation. Might well turn out to be rubbish though - I'll let you know. I know you can pay less but I think that unwise. Certainly it would be hard for me to get a decent W124 TE for that money.
W124's are worth the money they go for up to a point. I just don't have it at the moment!
John Haynes currently has a 230TE http://www.johnhaynesmercedes.co.uk/mercedes-for-s... 4owners 203K and it looks very good.
Edited by W124Bob on Sunday 11th November 20:27
bolide said:
That's £25 / pair less than I pay for Conti PC IIs. A very good deal, I'd say, if they have the right speed rating
Nick Froome
£124.42 to be exact. That's for the H rated, which is what the handbook recommends for the 230TE. Mind you the V rated PC5s are only another £5 each.Nick Froome
www.bestbuytyres.co.uk
£52.30 each here for V-rated but you'll have to pay for postage and fitment so your price is probably as good as you can get anywhere, I'd say: http://www.camskill.co.uk/m53b0s418p98168/Continen...
I still haven't driven on my winter continentals because I broke the locking wheel nut key while swapping them over. So it all turned into a depressingly expensive business.
I still haven't driven on my winter continentals because I broke the locking wheel nut key while swapping them over. So it all turned into a depressingly expensive business.
Looks like we have similar taste in cars.
My E320 needs a couple of front wings but I don't want to do that until I sort out the oil leak I have been living with for the last 6 months or so. There is a strong smell of hot oil for about 5 miles when I drive it which I assume comes from oil on the exhaust or manifold which eventually burns off. A look at the last MOT didn't come up with any answers, mainly because you can't see a lot because of the undertray. Anyone got any ideas about the likely source of the leak? I think it comes from the bottom of the engine rather than the top.
L.F.
My E320 needs a couple of front wings but I don't want to do that until I sort out the oil leak I have been living with for the last 6 months or so. There is a strong smell of hot oil for about 5 miles when I drive it which I assume comes from oil on the exhaust or manifold which eventually burns off. A look at the last MOT didn't come up with any answers, mainly because you can't see a lot because of the undertray. Anyone got any ideas about the likely source of the leak? I think it comes from the bottom of the engine rather than the top.
L.F.
Well, just finished 3 days of thorough cleaning & rustproofing under the car. Both plastic sill panels prised away and the plastic wheel-arch trims removed. Front arches and inner wings scrubbed, completely dried and treated with Dinitrol. Amazing amounts of crud removed from the areas at the front of the sills, only accessible after removing the wheel-arch liner and plastic sill panels, now plastered with Dinitrol. Front jacking point rubbers removed and copious amounts of Dinitrol sprayed at high pressure all around the inner sill/jacking point area, 2 rear JPs treated on the outside with rust convertor (just surface rust on the end of the tube) rear wheel arches cleaned and treated, various areas around rear windows etc treated. Both inner wing areas (between wheel-arch and indicator aperture) absolutely sound but thoroughly treated for good measure. The car is surprisingly rust free ( better then the 1996 E320T which cost 3X as much) but it's now ready for the worst the winter can throw at it.
A horribly messy and unpleasant job, especially on a damp driveway in mid-November, but strangely satisfying nonetheless!
What I can't understand is that both front wheel-arch areas have been painted, but when I cleaned the arches out and felt around inside the rim of each arch, they were both absolutely 100% clean and sharp. There's no way that repair sections could have been welded into the arches and resulted in such a good job - and why would you go to the trouble of doing a really professional job if the wings bolt off? - so why have the arches been painted?
So that's it - just a new pair of front tyres and some adjustment to the idle speed (it's about 150rpm too low) and we're good to go. Refurbishment of the 15 holes can wait until the spring.
I think I'm going to like it. I just hope the 320 doesn't sit about unused, because that would be a shame.
A horribly messy and unpleasant job, especially on a damp driveway in mid-November, but strangely satisfying nonetheless!
What I can't understand is that both front wheel-arch areas have been painted, but when I cleaned the arches out and felt around inside the rim of each arch, they were both absolutely 100% clean and sharp. There's no way that repair sections could have been welded into the arches and resulted in such a good job - and why would you go to the trouble of doing a really professional job if the wings bolt off? - so why have the arches been painted?
So that's it - just a new pair of front tyres and some adjustment to the idle speed (it's about 150rpm too low) and we're good to go. Refurbishment of the 15 holes can wait until the spring.
I think I'm going to like it. I just hope the 320 doesn't sit about unused, because that would be a shame.
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