MB Coupes - 123 or 124 . That is the question !

[zak]

I have been keeping my eyes open for a MB 2 door, pillarless coupe and I am liking the 124 model more and more. It seems a much more modern car than the 123, plus with a bit shorted wheelbase it seems sportier too.
They came with 2 engines here in the US, a 300CE 24 valve and later a 320CE. Is there an appreciable difference between the two engines in terms of power, smoothness , desirability and longevity ? I have read about the wiring harness  issues and the head gaskets.    These seem to plague both engines.
I would appreciate any thoughts or guidance or past experiences anyone has had with these engines and models. 
thanks,

jz

[WRe]

Hi,
here something to read:
- https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/oldtimer/mercedes-w123-taxi-benz-mit-massivem-rostproblem/
- https://www.mercedes-benz.com/de/lifestyle/classic-magazin/kaufberatung-mercedes-benz-c123/
- https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/oldtimer/mercedes-benz-w124-1984-1997-staerken-schwaechen/
- http://archiv.mb124.de/index.php?title=Kaufberatung-Allgemein
...WRe

[stickandrudderman]

Not sure about US specs but I always preferred the 300 24v over the 320. The additional 200cc comes from a longer stroke so the 320 has a more torque but is a bit less willing. Head gaskets are only a problem for cars that are allowed to run too hot, often due to a failed viscous coupling.
All 104 engines suffer from wiring issues.
Still, I do love a nice 123 coupe!

[zak]

Thanks for the replys. Aber meine Deutsche is nicht zo gut, Herr WRe.
We had a 211 , E320 wagon back 10 years ago and I never loved that engine.Kinda whimpy.
I see a few euro model for sale at E+R Classics and on Auto Scout24. A few had smaller engines- 200 and 230, I think. and with a stick shift too which would be a plus for me.
Would these small displacement 124s be even whimpier ?
jz

[franjo_66]

Hi Zak

My friend had a W124 E230 coupe and it was a bit frustrating at low speeds and take-off. On the highway was fine, but it made the E320 feel like an AMG V8.

As far as pillarless coupes go, IMHO the 126 series 560SEC or 500SEC with the Euro high compression engines are the pinnacle for me in looks, performance & build quality.

Even the USA/Australian version 560SEC are great performers.

If you are stuck on the 124 series, I would go with the 24 valve 3 litre ! Fantastic engine

[Benz Dr.]

I have a Euro 280CE 123 coupe here I'd like to find a new home.   

[stickandrudderman]

We had a 211 , E320 wagon back 10 years ago and I never loved that engine.Kinda whimpy.
I see a few euro model for sale at E+R Classics and on Auto Scout24. A few had smaller engines- 200 and 230, I think. and with a stick shift too which would be a plus for me.
Would these small displacement 124s be even whimpier ?
jz

The 320 engine in a 211 is a completely different engine to the one in a 124.
Early 124 230 had the M102 engine which I have always found to be a really nice "willing" engine. Later versions had the M111 which I never liked as much.