The Best Car Ever Made? Probably. The Mercedes-Benz W124 Was The Most Influential Modern Era Car.
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 8 ม.ค. 2025
- A full review and test drive of a well kept Mercedes 300T, the S124 wagon platform of the venerable W124 series. It’s safe to say that the W124 was groundbreaking, and set the standard for cars that would come afterward. It’s quite possibly - probably, even - the best car ever built.
But it’s not infallible - to own one is to own a very drivable classic, but it won’t happen without maintenance and repairs - this is an incredible, durable, and reliable machine - but it’s meant to be serviced and driven forever, not something to be thrown away after 10 to 15 years, like many cars made today.
No matter what, the car is a legend, and the rewards of ownership far exceed the cost of having one around. It’s a car that wins your heart, and becomes part of the family.
Amusing video of the old 5th Gear show trying to kill a wagon:
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The sedans were nicknamed "V-Boots" where my dad comes from. I was a car crazy teenager when they were released and I remember being shocked when he said he'd rather stick with his W123s. Sure he had a profitable side-business exporting nearly new w123s to his home country. Some of our best father/son times were our numerous trips checking out and buying them. But to my naive mind, newer always meant better. No matter what I said he wouldn't budge. At the time, I figured it was because he was older than your average dad and probably a little too set in his ways. Then again, the W123 vs W124 debate is probably the only thing that'll persist longer than the cars themselves.
Fast forward 20 odd years and my father is gravely ill. Thankfully, he'd clung on just long enough for me and my brother to make the trip to see him. Yet it was clear that he needed to be re-hospitalized to have any chance of surviving much longer. Trouble is, he hated hospitals and he wouldn't budge.
It's the morning of our last day. My brother-in-law - who happens to own a w124 - is due to take us to the airport. He agrees that we can make a detour to the hospital, IF I can persuade my father to go.
I enter my father's room, wake him up and tell him there's a V-Boot outside, waiting to take him to the hospital. His dulled eyes instantly lit up. He raised his head and smiled as he asked expectantly "You've bought me a V-Boot?!"
He looked so crestfallen when I explained that it was actually his son-in-law's.
I felt crushed.
Then I blurted "So you wait till you're on your deathbed before confessing that you'd really like a V-Boot after all?!"
That was the last laugh we shared together...
And the last ride.
Love you Dad
Wow! That was deep, thanks for sharing. I was born in that only country that refers to the w124 as v-boot. I have owned a w124 cabriolets for almost 22 years now, never bored of it and will never sell it. Of course I do the maintenance myself. Learnt diy mechanics because of my passion for this car. How do I explain to my wife who can’t understand the obsession with this old car as she calls it? Truly iconic cars.
@@tbos. What differentiates cars from other machines is the way they weave into the fabric of our lives. Your wife will respect and love you more if you don't explain and just be.
thanks for the story
What a story!! Thank you for sharing with us! I loved and still love the w124. I was born in a country where Mercedes is everywhere, Albania, and at the year when I was born (2000) the w123 and w124 was literally everywhere! When I was born my dad had a w124 200d which a year later was stolen, in 2002 he bought the facelifted version of w124 1992-3 also with the 2.0 diesel engine. What a car! I falled in love since the first day I saw it, I was 2 yrs old and the car was inside of our warehouse, I remember that day perfectly to the details! Than we kept it for 13 years, so much trips, so many memories in that car, first car I drove and loved! In 13 years we made 380.000 km, not a single major problem, original engine, original gearbox and original clutch! Once it made 600km with petrol instead of diesel in Italy, no problems at all. We sold it in 2015 with 550.000 km. The worst day of my life, I cried a lot my friend, a lot!
@@arbrimehdija5821 That car sounds epic! So sad your family couldn't find a way to keep it but you will always have those great memories. All the best my friend.
One of the few automotive channels that can make videos this long without being boring or annoying. There sure was a lot to tell about the incredible W124!
I bought one of these in 1993 and sold it to a friend of mine. He's still driving it today....500,000 miles on it so far and still going strong!
Original engine?
@@leonelvilla5161 yes!
Actually he just told it to a Moroccan guy for €500....it will probably get to 1m miles for him!!
@@mickpilsworth1 if you don’t mind how much did you sell it to him for and how many miles? I have my eye on one and I might buy it if the price is right
@@leonelvilla5161 He paid me €3,000 for the car in 1999.
Bill, you’re a national treasure.
International treasure. Amazing character.
For the love of God. Get rid of the squealing birds 🤬
Bill: The ultimate crank.
@@formatique_arschloch definitely International. Here in the Caribbean he’s quite popular among car enthusiasts.
I completely agree with the comment above - you truly are a national treasure & the knowledge you have and the way you present it ...along with these really interesting and special cars is a breath of fresh air.
Classic Benzs are criminally underappreciated
I need a W126 or W140 in my life
I drove these station wagons and sedans for work in the early 1990's.
It made me love my 1973 Cadillac Coupe dé Ville even more so.
Are they? Not everyone is inclined to be able to change a transmission on their own. These cars can be very expensive and very finicky
@@Ryan2022 That's a good point. I love classic Benzs but my 1993 190E 2.6 was not a DIY-friendly car. Mechanical complexity and servicing difficulties are probably their main downsides.
@@Ryan2022 I've owned several of these cars all different variants. With proper maintenance the transmissions start having issues around 300k.
Love the grumpy sarcasm and wit. Constant complaints in a grouchy south-Floridian voice always gets me. And hey, I learn about some neat cars along the way. Groovy.
Bill is the best car reviewer on TH-cam. By far, the best. Informative, entertaining. Absolutely the best
No doubt!
I started watching Bill’s video when I was 9 years old... I’m now on social security. LOL
This is your first comment on his channel tho... 🤔
@@805NAVE It was a little joke is all. I’ve been watching all through pandemic. Good to know we have mathematician viewers. 😜
Спекулянт ! работать не хочет , машины перепродаёт ...
@@АлександрВасильков-з4о I’m unable to read this.
@@kelleyshewmaker8154 Sorry ...
"This guy wrapped the original tool kit which is quite cool, in this bubble wrap, which is great because it keeps the moisture in so the tools can rust."
LOL , Bill !!!
That was so subtle I almost missed it, CLASSIC LINE!
@@tristanmackid4953 Bill is an ABSOLUTE CLASSIC with his humor!!! I would love to meet the man in person one day.
@@LakeNipissing same here! If I'm ever in Naples I'd love to stop by and meet the man himself. I'd rather meet Bill than almost any celebrity I can think of!
Still one of the greatest cars Mercedes has ever made. This was when engineering called the shots, not the marketing department.
Or Wall Street financial analysts
Friggin Bill is HILARIOUS and his sarcasm is my coronavirus therapy!!
This man is a treasure
truly
@Paulie Gualtieri wouldn't we all.
I imagine Bill hosting a radio show over the Naples FM band.
It would be a total success.
@@billace90 Yeah, "Morning Rants With Bill" on WGAF (Who Gives a F@#*) FM.
"There's your jack....there's your first aid kit....everything a wounded German needs." LMFAO... classic.
he is the only one complaining about the weather in Naples... I live in Naples and the weather is just PERFECT... I love this guy
I admire you. You're like a walking, talking automobile encyclopedia. Amazing!
YEAH HE IS
.you can tell bill's been around cars for 40 years. HE'S MY HERO
Eloquent Appraisal of w124 .I am in complete harmony with your appreciation. It is ❤️ warmer.
W124 was truly a legendary leap forward! Had a first year 1986 250D model straight from Germany. Sold it at 200K miles - and it never left us stranded.
53 minutes of entertainment. Love these videos.
The passion Bill puts into every car review he makes is just astonishing, I mean, it feels like every word is put there by a genius who knows what people want to hear and when they want to hear it and the comedy bits are the cherry on top.
Keep it up Bill, love you and your videos!
I’ve had a 93 300E 2.8 in the family since I was in middle school...300k miles and as strong as ever. I plan to pass it on to my kids one day!
Who else is here for Bill’s comedy and everyone else’s comments?
...and the wildlife report and the succinct weather report 3:57.
Me!!!
NO GOATS.
It’s always refreshing to find a car dealer who truly loves cars and knows each model’s history.
This is one of the best channels. Certainly something to keep us going during this never ending pandemic situation. Thanks Bill for the great reviews and hilarious comments.
My buddy Edgar rolled one of thees on 80 outside of Vacaville. he walked away without a scratch on em. super safe car.
Wow nice am from northern california go benz wagon super quick and nice
I used to drive through Vacaville all the time to see my girlfriend at Travis AFB.
Good memories!
Too bad Tiger Woods wasn't driving one of these...
Bay area!!
So did my friend slinky
"They could ask you for a dollar; or ask you for companionship or love, or whatever children want from you .. ugh .. GOD !" ... ha ha ... GOLD !
61k was a shit load of money in 93.. its got like a Plymouth Sundance worth of options! lol. we love to see it
My father, a traveling salesman, had several W123 diesels. Being in Finland these cars were insanely expensive with almost zero options, but the base cars were of course built like tanks and they were as reliable as a Mercs could be at the time. As W124 came around the price jumped so much he moved away from Mercs. I'm sure a brand new W124 would have been a great experience as the last car of his career.
Thanks Bill. This one has always been a fav of mine too.
I have a 93 300E 2.8 . . . The engine is great, but the "brilliant" engineering idea to use wiring harnesses with biodegradable insulation from 1992 to 1994 was an ABSOLUTE DISASTER !! Stalling engines, underhood fires, engine surging, idle problems, even airbag deployment was known to happen. The insulation would go to crumbs / dust inside of the looms. Even with class action lawsuit, Mercedes refused to recognize their fault and took no action to replace the wiring under warranty. The expensive harness replacement and any damaged components were left to the owner to pay for. Imagine buying a 100,000 $ Mercedes 500 with a V12 and be ignored by Mercedes with this fault, with the car only 6 to 8 years old!
The 1994 W124 300E sedan was the family car I learned to drive in as a nerdy teen. The car was sold in the late 90s to a family friend and when I was back visiting my hometown in 2019 he let me take the old girl for a spin and I savored every moment! Still runs like a champ! I hope to find a great example someday to have as my own. Thanks for the detailed tour of this one Bill!
I watched this in parts, but got it all in. Honestly, I believe you are one of the few guys out there worth listening to when it comes to Classic Mercedes Benz.
I just stumbled on this yesterday. This guy is funny as hell. I’ve watched many of his videos since.
Welcome back Bill and a superb car to review. Glad you are free from the goats and the birds.
Love watching your vids with a cold beer when we get home from work, make them longer or I’m going to send the Birds!
Well done!!
The Crockett phone call scene was amazing. Love these videos.
I went to Europe back in 1990. I was on the autobahn for the first time going 70 in my rental car. Coming up on my tail was a Mercedes like this. Flew by me at maybe 140. I counted the seconds before he reached the underpass. My time was exactly double. Now I own a pristine rust free 93 300E with the 3.2. Love it. 93,000 miles.
Best videos on TH-cam.. specially with the old Benz.
Thank you Bill.
And keep them long please
As of 3 years ago I'm now and owner of '95 s124 Estate in green! It's been in the family since 2000 and has been going to the same independent mechanic since and I still go to him. Never thought I would drive a "wagon" as daily driver much less fall in love with wagons! Of the many MBZ I've owned in the past the estate is a keeper and my favorite! If I can find a TD I might sell the '95 until then, she is my pride and joy! Thanks for posting!
Yeah, German cars were ridiculously expensive in the US in the early 90s. This was the equivalent of $112k adjusted for inflation.
I love wagons. MB, Volvo, whatever it may be. These are just better (more reliable) with the diesel engines, though.
@MrCarGuy
You have to remember that these were the days where the Germans...especially Mercedes...had huge dealer mark up in their stickers. Transaction prices were typically far less. For instance I knew someone that bought a brand new 300D in 1993. Sticker was $48,000 but they paid $40K
With Lexus rolling out cars like the LS400 for $38K in 1990 Mercedes had to evaluate . They lowered the dealer margins but they also came out with some cost cutting models such the W210 E class and the W220 S class
@@turnne I wish Bill makes a video on the LS 400. I'm sure he has a lot to tell about that car
@@turnne Aware of that but the discounts varied wildly. Some German cars were in much higher demand than the 300D.
However, you're dead wrong about the W210 and W220. Those are crazy myths and it's funny people still believe it.
Those programs were among the most expensive and labor intensive in the automaker's history. It was a massive undertaking in modern materials and electronics tech, especially in the W220 (more patents than any new vehicle yet). One point detractors always use is the rust. They invested heavily in a new corrosion protection solution and application which turned out to be the wrong solution formula (later fixed). Some cars (dipped in fresher solution than others) ended up being more corrosion resistant. This was not from cost-cutting and neither were the few hard interior plastic pieces that became brittle over time. It was the result of a few bad mistakes with new processes.
The M112/113 and 722.6 used in the 210 and 220 series also remain the most reliable gasoline powertrain and drivetrain combo used by them to date.
@@MrCarGuy
Actually ..I am going to have to respectfully disagree
The later 126 model S class of this time was also another car that was highly discounted
The 1991 560 SEL, adjusted for inflation would be $150K today
As for build quality...I am going to have to disagree again. The W220 is widely regarded as the worst S class ever. It was a huge step down in build quality from the W140 chassis
Ditto the w210 is seen as a step down from the W124
I owned a W140 when the W220 cars were newer. Those were not very reliable cars in the least..AND its reflected in the fact that their resale values were not very good at all
In fact a W140 is typically a more expensive car than a used W220
Even the W140 was " cheapened " up after the 1994 model year dropping some features that were formerly standard such as the power rear view mirror and headlight washers
As far as gasoline cars and drivetrains. The V8's ( and 6 cylinders) have been reliable
The V8's had some issues in 2007-2009 and the wiring harness issues of the 6 cylinder modelrs earlier
However..nothing comes even close to the drive trains of the pre 1991 Mercedes diesel engines
I also also rolls the 1990-1993 2.5 liter diesel in this group as well
But definitely not the 3.5 liter diesel used in 1992-1995 S class cars
I have an 87 300d turbo with the OM603 Diesel, AMAZING TANK 💪
These reviews keep me sane through the pandemic. Bill keeps it real! Got to appreciate these cars...built to last and easy to fix!!
I had a 200T for three years when the kids were young and we had just moved into the big house and I got basically everything in thisvehicle. When you folded the back seats down you had a pick up sized capacity and whilst I only had the 2 litre it was good enough - after all you were never going to race a car like this! Wonderful utility vehicle and a luxury car all in one! Marvellous car!
The six cylindres were for the outer lane of the autobahn. With people going 130, one hundrede and thirty miles an hour, between business appointments,...... Our four cylindres were more than adequate for lesser speed. And wonderful in the cities, pottering along,... Seemed like the balance and proportions of the vehicle were downright perfect.
Really enjoyable video of a superb car Bill. I totally agree with your views on the 124 series MB cars. I daily drive a 1990 W124 260E and previously had a 1991 C124 300CE that had 250k miles on it. Your humour and sarcasm really is the icing on the cake when watching your videos.
ONLY the best car ever in the only color that counts. Damn bill I am dying here....
RIP
Bill, you should do a bloopers video! The light switch popping off was classic!!
Hey Bill. Watching from Yorkshire in the UK. Keep it coming sir. This has become one of my all time favourite channels. 👍🇬🇧
There is a bird repellant device available. They’re called cats.
He doesn’t like Peter’s cat either. He’s big and creepy.
DISCLAIMER:
The following program was NOT made possible by the National Audubon Society and the American Bird Conservancy.
:)
The person who is reading this comment i wish you great success health love and happiness i watching from morocco God bless all God bless United States of America have a good day for everyone here ❤
@real madrid scania 4 ever ... And the same to you and yours. Cheers, Vail, Colorado
@@michaelschneider- thank you so much bro appreciate nice to meet you God bless you and bless your family ❤ life is beautiful enjoy my friends with all respects 🌞
Another quick and to the point review I see. I've recommended Bicurious Cars to my friends. This channel makes me as chipper as a Canadian in an S-Class.
The regular as clock work exaggerated deep breathes and well timed signs are EPIC!
Great Reviews!
Why this guy doesn’t have 2 million subscribers... I’ll never know!
+1. Original 1993 New Car window Monroney label @ 39:25 with an MSRP of $61,135.00 .. "Engineered Like No Other", Solid as a Rock!
I've inherited a W124 1994 E-320 Coupe, having a double overhead cam 3.2l In-line 6cyl (217HP / 229ft torque) w/ 4sp automatic.. .. The 1994 small production numbers W124 Coupe sold for a nose bleed MSRP of $84,000. .. Only options; ASR (anti-slip), Pwr Rear Sun Shade, Heated Seats, Sportline Pkg. & Bose Stereo w/trunck CD Changer. .. The E-320 Coupe is a highway cruiser like no other. It's library quiet with Uber comfortable orthopedic seating... Road Trip baby ....... Smoke Silver Metallic (702) with Creme Beige Leather (265) ...
Great video!!! I have a 95 wagon and convertible E320s, both seemed to be lemons but doing great now! Worth every penny, keep up the good videos! You should do a w126 and or 123 review as well
That is probably the best color combination for that car, definitely one of the best cars you have reviewed.
That interior still looks contemporary, comfortable, and high quality. The materials like the leather and wood trim actually look expensive. A place I wouldn’t mind spending time in.
Finally, you have a Benz where the orange on the Speedo has faded to white
Drove a 124 taxi a few years, wonderful to drive! It was a non-turbo 250 D with 111 hp, but quick enough because of the diesel torque. That car ended up going at least 750,000 km, close to 500,000 miles, workin' hard as a taxi day and night!
It was a 1995 model.
My son and I have loved your channel for many years. Many laughs. Future customer probably.
I’ve always appreciated station wagons, as I’ve owned four of them In my lifetime. Wagons were always very versatile cars. You really got me wanting one of these now, Bill!! 😂
What a truly fantastic review in every respect.... so called professional “ motoring journalists “ should watch Bills review to experience how a REAL IN-DEPTH REVIEW IS DONE !!
Absolute MASTERCLASS!!
I just heard you say you needed a quick video to offset your trip to NC, so you just decided to do a QUICKIE to get us by until Monday. I checked the player, and you were five minutes into a 53-minute video. Luv It. There is a kindred soul in my area of cars (even the cheesy 70s American cars)... Plus when I google certain models I know; but, want to Search-Deeper, you've often covered it already! I know the technology, but you give me a little background on development and such. When I am drinking a little Bourbon in the morning and a bong hit or two, I am thankful when I come across you (a subscriber). Keep it up!
Just discovered this buddy, and wow! I love how you always make space for us Canadians too!
I 1st rode on this car in 2003, was totally blown away at how "nice" it felt inside and out. I was in the back seat at night.... I legit felt like I was in brand new limo. There was definitely something special about this car for sure.
"I thought i would do a quick one" Bill this is nearly an hour long
I know, I know. It's peter's fault with the glass of medicinal whiskey.
@@curiouscars9282 i swear Bill every second of this video was SOO WORTH IT!!!!!! Your videos bring me so much joy and added NECESSARY knowledge, ESSENTIAL to the ole' Noggin.
Much Love from Dallas, Texas brother.
We ain't complaining, the longer the more bill we get....keep it up man....
In Mogador (Morocco) The taxi's are all Merced 1977-1985 W123. The drivers say they have gone over a million miles on the same engine. They were diesel, and it was such a pleasure to know that Germany is the best.
Bill never ever change what you do .... oh my god dying laughing and loving the reviews !! I’m just waiting on the killer goats every episode 😂😂😂
Almost one hour of the W124... perfect!!
Thanks so much for your incredible videos, Bill!
You’re welcome, but this too much. Most of the blame is with Peter
ooh, a W124 wagon!
Before we get to the car, we’ve heard about goats, birds, getting hotboxed in an RV...
That’s why I love this channel.
I was shocked to see you had to pull up on the outside lane when the school bus stopped. That would be unthinkable in London. Looking forward to your 79 Cougar hope she's fit 😍
I daily drive a 1993 W124 400E with 265K miles ( in North Florida)
More power to you!
That was an enjoyable hour Bill. My first Benz was a 95 e320 which I bought in 1994.
The weather here in Indiana went from 5° and
10” of snow and ice totally shutting everything down to 65” and sunny in a week.
Possibly the funniest of Bill's output. When Covid is over he could take his shtick on tour. I mean, I would pay to see Bill on stage. Great stuff, really really great stuff.
he complains it's amazing to see what he complains about. more than anyone Ive ever heard in life or online. he complains about a color, a bird, a lawnmower, it's what makes him not watchable. I still watch for the cars and his input, but damn it's bad.
Bill, you are Great! Love the W124 storyline.
Watching Bill's videos are the BEST way to start my day here in the UK.
The review that I never wanted to end ! Thanks so much bill ; A beautifully made slice of normality, in a perfect car . Just masterful:) 👍
19:31 Thanks for the Canadian content Bill, that Pontiac wagon in the stock photo has what appears to be an Ontario plate, could be some Degrassi kids coming home from the one of the TV show's episode. Drake was once a cast member of a later Degrassi the Next Generation series.
I agree wit chu..! I’m a 94 E 320 wagon owner....285 thou miles.. still purring.. slowly restoring to prominence... the best automobile I’ve owned...
I turned my television off just to watch you Bill! Your comments are great! Love the nice Mercedes Wagon....Runs great!!!!! Thanks for your fun videos!....I love 'em!
I just love to listen to this guy.Superb review.Just superb.I cannot find a better word.Thank you, sir.
Wonderful commentary on this one, Bill. I'd love to own the vehicle. Thanks for putting this video together. What the hell - drive it to N.C.! ... :-)
GREAT CHANNEL BILL, GREAT INFORMATION,GOD BLESS YOU...
For German cars, the "T" usually stands for "Touring" and the "E" stands for "Einspritzmotor" which means fuel injection motor. My neighbour has one of these "touring" versions in a metallic red colour, but he had the really fancy (and hideously expensive!) "300 TE 24" version with 24 valves. My uncle had a 250d diesel version (we used to joke that he was a taxi driver because those W124s were used extensively as taxis in The Netherlands, Belgium, Germany etc), which was very slow but ran like a tank.
I am glad you are bringing back the type of European classic car reviews that made you famous! How I found you is the classic Mercedes - and especially the station wagon! Glad to see it.
Watching a curious cars review makes me as chipper as a Canadian in a Cadillac!
Loved the Miami Vice, cellphone reference, very humorous, missed your vocation there Sir! A truly lovely machine, great entertaining and informative video, you tell it how it is.
Looks best as a Coupe and Wagon. Beautiful car.
@67tomcat .. +1 for the w124 Coupe body style. .. From a 3/4 rear vantage point of view, the sweeping lines are understated elegance..
Thanks for this great review of one of my favorite cars, iconic workhorses, when properly serviced and maintained and looked after.
Was waiting for this one.
FINALLY! Hahaha Ive had my 86 300e sedan sitting on my driveway for about a year now. Your video is motivating me to work on it lol
My oldest friend is still driving his blue one. Well north of 300K on the odometer.
Yes! I’m restoring my grandfather’s W124. Glad it was garaged in Naples, FL for 25 years
I own a 1994 500E with 45,000 miles on it. The thing is a tank and drives great.
Never sell it.
Still a very handsome vehicle even today! I was shocked when you showed the Cadillac of the time
Hi Bill! Here in Cambodia rare are the occasions to have a nice moment talking about cars (and guns'and dope!?) With a pro of second hand cars! And this one I enjoy especially because my father own one of this Mercedes until his departure from this plan of existence in 2006,wich I inherit and used for 10years,without any big problems!
So,thanks a lot,and I am delighted by this upload today!
I have a 1987 300D, plus a 1995 300E, both diesels. 87 has 450k, and the 95 has 246K. Not fast cars off the line, but these cars are street tanks!!! I love the interior on both. Nice video!!
I drive a W211 Estate Car here in the UK (my Third) It's the E320 with the six cylinder diesel engine.
I have always put your car along with the Contemporary Volvo as antique dealers cars.
Big enough to carry large furniture but smart and comfortable to drive anywhere.
Nice car!
37:21 you got me with the Miami Vice bit LOL
Great! I’d love to see a review of the W124 CE coupe, I was considering one recently
I've have one. 220 ce.
Your uploads make my day
Absolutely brilliant video Bill, loved the Tubbs call on the cell phone
Love you BILL!!!!!!
You're my favorite demo guy!!!!
Always enjoy your demos,
And you keep me interested t
hroughout the whole video!!
I always look forward to the next video!!!!!
God Bless!!
Take care!!
And Stay safe!!