1992 Mercedes-Benz W124 400E 4.2L 32 valve V8

Summary:

The understated W124 from Daimler Benz

Faults:

The only problems had with the vehicle were due to normal wear and old age.

However there were a few issues not customary in a motorcar with a $57K price tag. Front crank seal (major oil leak), leaky power steering box (had to replace), and the worst one being a bad slide valve (throttle body), and main wiring harness ($1,000 for the harness alone). Aside from these problems, I can still say that this car never left me stranded on the roadside..

General Comments:

I am simply amazed with the manner in which this motorcar picks up speed on the highway. This is a heavy 4 door saloon, yet I still see speeds in excess of 145mph regularly. 152 was the most I have seen, that is pretty much max-ed out.

This car was made for long distance high speed touring and it shows in near silent cabin at speeds up to about 135mph. After that, the sunroof and mirrors start making a light whistling sound.

The vehicle is stock (no modifications) except for a different control unit which came from a European E420, which has slightly different fuel and spark curves. Anyhow, top speed was not affected with the new box (mine was damaged during repair).

Stopping ability is also phenomenal with brakes having been borrowed from the SL model. They are the same 4 piston fronts and twin piston rears (calipers) as on the 500E. Fabulous motorcar!!!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 14th September, 2001

21st May 2002, 18:33

I just wanted to say that was a brilliant description of the 400e. I own one and couldnt have said it better myself!

12th Aug 2002, 12:19

Hi Steven - I just bought a 400E from a sale at a local Infiniti dealer. It drives unbelievably tight and smooth, despite 193,000 miles. I intend to keep the car as it's amazingly clean. However, do you know of any major (i.e. costly) surprises I might be in for if I did so. Haven't had chance to check it over yet, but engine and tranny are flawlessly smooth. Thanks, Jim Ernst.