Faults:

Generator voltage regulator: Coals worn out at 236000 km, regulator replaced.

Outside temp display too low by -10C - sensor replaced, temp display still too low, probably a problem in the display unit;

Front left window opener toothed rack lost a tooth at 239000 km, window stuck in closed position;

Precautionary repairs:

- Transverse control arm joints replaced

- Several rubber joints on rear axle replaced.

General Comments:

Rock solid car, very reliable and comfortable.

Almost no rust, only where the outer hull has been scratched.

Driving comfort is unbeatable.

Fuel consumption between 8.3 and 10 liters / 100 km, average 9.2 liters / 100 km.

Lots of space inside.

Turning circle surprisingly narrow, better than many eco class cars.

Air condition works perfectly, fuel consumption is even LESS with the air conditioning turned on than without - beats me why, but it's nice!

Faults:

Power antenna stopped working twice, not going all the way down.

Light bulbs fail remarkably often.

Key cylinder was blocked at 160 000 kilometers. As result, both key cylinder and steering column lock had to be replaced.

Aside from these trivia, no problems have occurred.

General Comments:

The gearbox does not work smoothly at all. Better go for an automatic.

The car offers very poor visibility to the rear, especially when compared to its predecessor. This makes parking an extremely unpleasant adventure.

Generally I am very pleased with the car as it is very spacious and comfortable and of almost legendary reliability.

The performance of the engine isn't really exciting, but absolutely sufficient considering the heaviness of the car. Gas mileage is very pleasing, too.

The car was (and still is!) expensive to purchase, it also did not come with a lot of standard equipment.

But maintenance costs are generally low as this model was a bestseller among taxi drivers around the world. Due to this fact, spare parts are affordable and easy to get everywhere. In Germany, Mercedes-Benz even officially sells second hand parts.

Considering these facts, the 124 series should make a faithful long term companion for anyone who needs a big and reliable workhorse at affordable costs.

Service at my local Mercedes dealership is way too expensive, though.

Conclusion: After two Mercedes and more than twenty years of hassle-free driving, I won't go for anything else in my life.

Faults:

The car is rested during the winter period. This year, a micro switch activating the passenger belt feeder didn't survive the lay up.

General Comments:

The engine is exceptionally smooth.

A short warm-up period is needed. Then the car is very quick, if you don't mind using the higher rev ranges.

Very good transmission.

Air conditioning automatic control is sometimes "stubborn".

Can travel fast and far quite relaxed.

Not cheap, but worth the money.