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Mercedes-Benz E-Class W124 (1st E-Class Generation)

1985–1995 · W124 · sedan

The W124 was sold in the US from 1986 (as the 300E etc.) and was renamed E-Class in 1994 with the model-year facelift. The W124 introduced the multi-link rear suspension and a partially zinc-coated body that gave the platform its enthusiast-favorite long-term durability reputation. Powertrains range from OM60x diesels through M103/M104 inline-sixes to the M119 V8 in the Porsche-built 500 E / E500.

Watch out: Owner reports of cooling-system age (radiator end-tanks, plastic expansion tank, viscous fan clutch), wiring harness brittleness on certain mid-1990s cars (the documented biodegradable insulation era), and head gasket / oil cooler weeps on M104 inline-sixes are recurring. Rust on jacking points and rear wheel arches appears despite the zinc body.