1986 Mercedes-Benz W124 300E review from Australia and New Zealand

Small electric failures in seat controls and heating system.

Squeaks in rear suspension.

Radiator top-hose fitting fell out.

Shock absorbers all round at 80,000.

Front brake rotors at 90,000.

Drive and handling is just superb. I was told by dealers that Mercedes were staid and for old guys. I have a high powered classic sports car and the Benz will eat it (using the power option).

We have done a lot to it, but nothing really outside maintenance.

The most outstanding feature we discovered when my wife hit black ice at 5am on a bridge at 60mph. The car slid the length of the bridge, (no ABS) turning

and impacting the guard rail extremely hard 90 degrees to the road. It stopped dead. The impact protection took all the force, wrecking the front bumper and a slight bend to the under frame, and did not even touch the grille or lights. My lovely wife (bless her) just

suffered a little whiplash.

The car is driven every day without fail and has never let us down in five years and 70000 miles.

Economy is outstanding at 30 plus mpg imperial, maybe 27 of yours for a car of its size.

We do many 270 mile trips through our mountainous regions and the comfort and handling can't be faulted.

And, believe it or not, it will deal to a 2000 Skyline turbo. Not that I would have any knowledge of that!