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Hey everyone, I came across this 1987 Mercedes-Benz 260E on The Truth About Cars and thought it would make for an interesting discussion. This is a classic W124 generation sedan that represents Mercedes-Benz's commitment to engineering excellence during the late 1980s.

The 260E features a 2.6-liter inline-six engine that produces around 160 horsepower, paired with either a manual or automatic transmission depending on the specific model. For its era, this was considered a solid performer with respectable fuel efficiency for a luxury sedan.

What's interesting about this particular model is its reputation for durability and build quality. Mercedes-Benz was known for constructing vehicles that could last well beyond 200,000 miles if properly maintained. The interior appointments reflect the luxury segment positioning, with comfortable seating and quality materials throughout.

However, like any 1987 vehicle, there are considerations. Parts availability for some components can be challenging, and finding a well-maintained example requires patience. The W124 platform was produced until 1997, so some commonality with later models exists, but specifics to the 260E engine may be harder to source.

The styling is distinctly 1980s Mercedes-Benz – understated elegance with those characteristic rounded lines. It's not flashy, but it has presence on the road. The sedan sits low and has that classic European luxury feel.

For collectors or enthusiasts interested in classic Mercedes-Benz models, the 260E represents an interesting alternative to the more expensive 300E or 500E variants. It's worth exploring if you're considering adding a classic European sedan to your collection.

What are your thoughts? Has anyone here owned or driven a 260E? I'd love to hear about experiences with reliability and ownership costs.

I'm not convinced this is a good buy in today's market. The maintenance costs alone could be prohibitive. You're looking at $2,000+ annually just for routine service, and if something goes wrong with the transmission, you could be in for a $5,000-$8,000 repair bill. Factor that in before purchasing.

The W124 generation was the last of the truly mechanical Mercedes-Benz cars before everything became computerized. I respect that philosophy. The 260E might not have the power of a 300E, but it's more than adequate for daily driving and looks just as elegant.

Great find! The 260E is often overlooked compared to its larger-displacement siblings. I've seen some really well-maintained examples out there. The inline-six engine is bulletproof if you keep up with oil changes and valve adjustments. These cars will easily hit 300k miles with proper care.

Does anyone know about rust issues with these older Mercedes models? I've heard the W124 can be susceptible to rust in certain areas, particularly around the door sills and trunk. That's a major concern for me when considering any vehicle from this era.

Good question, David. From what I've read, the W124 actually had improved rust protection compared to earlier Mercedes models. The undercoating and paint quality were decent for the 1980s. Of course, it depends heavily on how the car was stored and maintained. A southern car would likely be in better condition than one that spent its life in a rust belt state.

Can someone comment on the driving dynamics? How does it compare to modern cars in terms of handling and braking? I'm curious about the practical aspects of ownership, not just the nostalgia factor.

The 260E is a solid choice for someone who appreciates classic German engineering without wanting to deal with the fuel consumption of the larger engines. It's a practical collector car, really. Not too expensive to buy, and parts can be sourced through specialty suppliers.

One thing people underestimate is the safety aspect. The W124 had surprisingly good crash test results when it was new. Sure, it's not up to modern standards, but the steel construction and rigid body are actually quite protective compared to some cars from that era.

The 260E has a certain charm that modern cars just don't have. Yes, there are maintenance considerations, but if you're the type of person who enjoys wrenching on cars or has a trusted independent Mercedes specialist, it's a rewarding ownership experience. The feel of the steering wheel and the solidity of the build quality are unmatched.