Need advise, looking at CE's...
 

Since my 300E sedan was wrecked, I am considering buying a CE to transfer all the performance parts and RENNTech 3.6 engine.

I know the CE is shorter, has a 24 valve head for 217hp, and separate rear seats.

Is there a wheelbase or weight difference? Are the transmissions and differential the same as the sedan? Are there "better" years? What are the production numbers?

If you are installing your 3.6 M104, then avoid the 1988-1990 with the M103.
The M103-12V has a much less sophisticated engine management system.
The later models will use the same M104-24V as your 3.6.
Wheelbase about 2" shorter, Same transmission and differential.
You might want to try to find a "Sportline" version which has a more performance oriented suspension that includes larger sway bars, peformance shocks and shorter springs. :y

:word: This would save you from having to upgrade suspension, which I am now finding out is a pain in the ass.

You can swap it into my 300ce and i will send you pictures :)

Yeah that engine would do wonders for m CE

Even better, that motor would be great in my 94 convertable, If you send it over I will let you drive it when it is finished :D

Seriously, a 93-95 convertable with that motor would be a great sleeper car, You would want to make some suspension upgrades, there were a few sportline convertable's made, but they are very very hard to find. Most of these cars have realtively low miles as well so the rest of the car, i.e transmissions, are usually in great shape.

I have a 1990 with the M104-24V.

Actually my 3.6 is 103 based. How much better is the engine management for the 104?

All,
My intent is to salvage the performance parts on my wreck but if the CE's 217hp is sufficient and I find a clean upgraded example, maybe I'll just part out or sell mine complete. I still need to get a decent settlement from the insurance company...

Thanks!

I love w124 convertibles but am concerned about their vunerability to vandalism. They really should have produced a factory hard top.

There is a full RENNTech conversion convertible selling for $38k in NY.

If it's an M103, then get a 1988 -1990 300CE that has the M103.
M103 with the KE-Jetronic fuel injection has minimal engine management.
That would be the best situation for an engine swap.
The M104 -24V has a more computerized engine management.

If you find a clean M104, you'll probably find that the stock performance isn't too shabby :y

Yeah, but it also leaves much to be desired, IMO

Why dont you just fix that car and save yourself a bunch of headaches & money.I have some friends that would have that thing looking brand new.The money you save can go on tt system or something special for the wife.

The insurance company is totaling it because their estimate is lower than what the body shop will fix it for. I think $7k vs 8 or 9k. They would have to weld a rear clip. Plus I don't want a repaired and devalued car...

I added the OE Sportline suspension on my '91 300CE...what are you having trouble with? Still tight after 5 years! PM me if you want to come check it out....my office is in Roswell.

Sorry to learn of your accident...hopefully you'll find a suitable CE for your needs. Yes, the coupe is a tad heavier.

part that sucker out and buy a 500E

Do you have a link to that RENNTech car? Would love to see that!!
As for vandalism.. that is why I keep it bone-stock and never leave anything of value in the passenger compartment. Knock on wood, no problems to date.

1990 was the first year for the M104 motor in the CE. 1993 was the first year for the M104 in the 300E.

Here you go: http://www.mercedesshop.com/shopforu...light=renntech

not much info posted so you need to email him...