M103 vs M104 engine
Discussion
Having had the M103 in a 300SL for years and loving its smoothness and ability to help de stress modern life I was wondering whether the M104 is simply a 24 valve version of the M103? And is it as smooth/calming to drive.
As best I've read so far it's a more revvy engine and of course has 30 or so extra BHP.
Any insights etc would be appreciated.
And if anyone is a Merc engine expert is the latter 320 (R129 SL) similar or different again? I know the face lift late 90's ones were V6's.
Cheers
As best I've read so far it's a more revvy engine and of course has 30 or so extra BHP.
Any insights etc would be appreciated.
And if anyone is a Merc engine expert is the latter 320 (R129 SL) similar or different again? I know the face lift late 90's ones were V6's.
Cheers
M104 has 2 regular versions 3.0 and 3.2.
The 3.2 uses the later (better IMO) fuel injection & engine management system now with coil on plug and wasted spark. More relaxed and less revvy than than the 3.0.
I think (although willing to be corrected) 5 speed gearbox became std on the 3.2.
They also had the biodegradable harness, if it hasn't been done budget £500.
The 3.2 uses the later (better IMO) fuel injection & engine management system now with coil on plug and wasted spark. More relaxed and less revvy than than the 3.0.
I think (although willing to be corrected) 5 speed gearbox became std on the 3.2.
They also had the biodegradable harness, if it hasn't been done budget £500.
Edited by PositronicRay on Friday 3rd July 16:14
The early M104 (3.0 24V) found in my 300SL-24, is essentially an M103 block with the multi-valve twin-cam head.
It’s rated at 40 plus bhp more than the 12-valve 103, and has a completely different character.
It’s very revvy (7000 red line) and a real aural treat - far more so then the later 320 which has more usable low-down torque.
Both are soothing and sybaritic though, particularly with the rather excellent 5-speed auto.
I’ve owned the M103 in 300TE form, and thoroughly enjoyed it - but rate the 300-24 as a more enjoyable experience.
The E280s I’ve had were a little underwhelming, but super-smooth.
My C36 has the ultimate M104 derivation; bored out with Mahle pistons etc it’s far more pointy and shouty than the standard straight-six, but there again, so it should be.
The straight-six of this era, in any guise, is a super piece of design, and one which thrives on use.
The incidence of a head gasket actually going completely is rare - but wiring looms will need attention on the 280 / 320 / 36 units at some stage.
It’s rated at 40 plus bhp more than the 12-valve 103, and has a completely different character.
It’s very revvy (7000 red line) and a real aural treat - far more so then the later 320 which has more usable low-down torque.
Both are soothing and sybaritic though, particularly with the rather excellent 5-speed auto.
I’ve owned the M103 in 300TE form, and thoroughly enjoyed it - but rate the 300-24 as a more enjoyable experience.
The E280s I’ve had were a little underwhelming, but super-smooth.
My C36 has the ultimate M104 derivation; bored out with Mahle pistons etc it’s far more pointy and shouty than the standard straight-six, but there again, so it should be.
The straight-six of this era, in any guise, is a super piece of design, and one which thrives on use.
The incidence of a head gasket actually going completely is rare - but wiring looms will need attention on the 280 / 320 / 36 units at some stage.
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