Introductie en historie Mercedes-Benz W124
Introduction and History of the Mercedes-Benz W124 / R124 Series
The Mercedes-Benz W124 series, introduced in 1984, represents one of the most successful and iconic model lines in Mercedes-Benz history. Known for its outstanding engineering, timeless design, and legendary durability, the W124 was the successor to the W123 and served as the company’s mid-size luxury range for over a decade. The R124 designation specifically refers to the coupe and convertible versions of the W124 family.
Development Background
The development of the W124 began in the early 1980s under the direction of legendary chief designer Bruno Sacco. The project aimed to bring advanced aerodynamics, new safety features, modernized design, and improved efficiency to Mercedes-Benz’s highly successful mid-size segment.
Official debut: November 1984 at the Paris Motor Show (sedan version).
It replaced the legendary W123, setting a new benchmark for luxury, build quality, and technology in the segment.
The car was engineered for a long service life and is still praised today for its robustness.
Body Styles
The W124 was offered in a variety of body styles during its production run:
| Body Style | Internal Code | Launch Year |
|---|---|---|
| Sedan | W124 | 1984 |
| Estate (wagon) | S124 | 1985 |
| Coupé | C124 (often referred to as R124) | 1987 |
| Convertible | A124 (often referred to as R124) | 1991 |
| Long Wheelbase Sedan | V124 | 1990 |
| Limousine (6-door) | VF124 | 1990 |
The Coupé and Convertible (R124)
C124 Coupé
Introduced in 1987 at the Geneva Motor Show.
Based on the sedan platform but with a shortened wheelbase (by 8.5 cm).
Frameless side windows, elegant pillarless design, and distinct styling made it a true grand tourer.
Focused on luxury, comfort, and exclusivity.
A124 Convertible
Introduced in 1991, production started for model year 1992.
First four-seater Mercedes-Benz convertible since the early 1970s.
Reinforced body structure (over 1000 additional modifications compared to the sedan) to compensate for the lack of a roof.
Highly sophisticated fully automatic soft-top mechanism.
Remains one of the most collectible models of the W124 series.
Key Innovations
Aerodynamic design (Cd value as low as 0.28).
Multilink rear suspension for superior ride comfort and handling.
Extensive use of high-strength steel for improved safety.
Advanced safety features: seatbelt tensioners, airbags, ABS (standard on later models), ASR (traction control), and ESP (on later models).
Highly durable engines and gearboxes, contributing to its reputation for exceptional longevity.
Optional 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system (sedan and estate only).
Innovative automatic climate control, advanced electronics, and superior interior materials.
Engine Range (Europe, for Coupé & Convertible)
| Model | Engine | Displacement | Power |
|---|---|---|---|
| 230 CE | M102 | 2.3L I4 | 132 hp |
| 300 CE (early) | M103 | 3.0L I6 | 180 hp |
| 300 CE-24 | M104 | 3.0L I6 DOHC 24v | 220 hp |
| E 220 Coupé/Cabriolet | M111 | 2.2L I4 | 150 hp |
| E 320 Coupé/Cabriolet | M104 | 3.2L I6 | 220 hp |
| E 200 Coupé (late models) | M111 | 2.0L I4 | 136 hp |
| E 36 AMG Coupé/Cabriolet | M104 AMG | 3.6L I6 | 272 hp |
Note: The convertible was only offered with the M111, M104, and AMG engines.
Facelifts and Naming Changes
1993 facelift (“modelpflege”):
Mercedes adopted the new naming system:
e.g. 300 CE → E 320 Coupé
Minor design changes: updated grille (so-called “grille-in-hood” design), smoother bumpers, updated lighting, new wheels, interior improvements.
Improved safety features (passenger airbags, ASR/ESP, more advanced electronics).
What about the “E420”?
There was no official 420 E factory production for the W124 series.
However, some very rare 400 E (North America) models existed:
400 E / E 420 (US market): M119 4.2L V8, producing 275 hp.
Production limited mostly to North America and Japan.
Not built by Porsche but followed similar packaging challenges as the 500 E.
More affordable V8 version but still rare and desirable today
Summary Table
Model Engine Power Porsche Involvement? Production 400 E / E 420 4.2L V8 (M119) 275 hp No ~22,000 units (mainly USA/Japan)
Production Figures
| Body Type | Internal Code | Production Volume |
|---|---|---|
| Sedan | W124 | ~2,213,167 units |
| Estate (T-model) | S124 | ~340,503 units |
| Coupé | C124 | ~141,498 units |
| Convertible | A124 | ~33,952 units |
| Long Wheelbase Sedan | V124 | ~10,338 units |
| Limousine (6-door) | VF124 | very limited (low thousands; not officially separated in many sources) |
Total W124 production (all variants combined):
~2.74 million vehicles (1984–1997)
Legacy and Reputation
The W124 and especially the R124 series are often regarded as:
“The last over-engineered Mercedes” — built to extremely high standards of durability and reliability.
Timeless design — the clean lines of Sacco’s work remain elegant even decades later.
Incredible longevity — many W124 models continue to serve daily drivers globally.
Collectible status — especially the A124 Cabriolets and AMG models are becoming true modern classics.
The R124, with its perfect blend of quality, understated luxury, and rock-solid engineering, remains one of Mercedes-Benz’s most beloved youngtimers.
Mercedes-Benz 500 E / E 500 (W124.036)
Production years: 1990–1995
Engine: M119 5.0L V8 — 326 hp (later 320 hp with emissions updates)
Performance: 0–100 km/h in ~5.5–6.0 seconds — this was supercar territory for a sedan in the early 1990s.
Porsche’s involvement:
Mercedes lacked the capacity to modify the W124 body for the larger V8, so they outsourced development and assembly to Porsche.
The process:
Body shells were partially assembled at Mercedes-Benz Sindelfingen.
Shipped to Porsche’s plant in Zuffenhausen for modification, widening, and hand assembly.
Returned to Mercedes for final finishing.
The 500 E has unique flared fenders, a lower stance, and specific chassis and suspension upgrades.
Often nicknamed “The Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing” — very understated looks but enormous performance.
Production Timeline (Porsche-built W124 V8 variants)
Year Model Notes 1990 500 E pre-series Development & prototypes 1991 500 E Start of series production 1993 500 E → E 500 Facelift and name change 1994 E 500 Limited Special edition
Production Numbers
1️⃣ 500 E / E 500 (W124.036)
Total production: 10,479 units
Built entirely with Porsche involvement
Model years 1991–1995
Roughly:
~5,700 as 500 E (1991–1993)
~4,700 as E 500 (1993–1995 facelifted)
2️⃣ E 500 Limited (special edition, 1994)
Total production: 951 units
Unique features:
Special interior color schemes (two-tone Nappa leather)
Designo trim packages
Exclusive wheels, special badging
