Mercedes E-Class W124 Diesel Examples Are Fetching 6 Figures

As low-mileage examples of the Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class command top dollar, enthusiasts weigh the value of these automotive icons.
 

Timeless Design
The W124 generation of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class stands as a hallmark in automotive design and engineering. Conceived by the renowned design director Bruno Sacco, the W124 is celebrated for its impeccable balance of comfort and performance. Notable features include a unique single-arm wiper, which efficiently cleared a greater portion of the windscreen, and innovative rear lights designed to remain visible under snowy conditions. Despite a minor issue with biodegradable wiring harnesses, the W124 is revered as one of the most reliable and enduring models in Mercedes-Benz history.
 
The Appeal of Low Mileage
A remarkable aspect of the W124’s allure is the high value placed on low-mileage examples. Recently, an 8,400-mile 1995 Mercedes-Benz E300 Diesel sold for an astounding $101,000 on Bring A Trailer. The diesel variant, powered by the dependable OM606 straight-six engine, was known for its longevity, often favored for long-distance travel. The rarity of finding a low-mileage diesel W124, combined with its robust engineering, contributes significantly to its high market value.
 
Comparisons with Other W124 Models
The impressive sale price of the low-mileage E300 Diesel is put into perspective when compared to other notable W124 models. For instance, an exclusive Porsche-built Mercedes-Benz E500, which had 23,000 miles on the odometer, was sold for a similar price earlier this year. Although the E500 is considered a high-performance variant with unique engineering, its mileage was almost triple that of the E300 Diesel, highlighting the premium placed on exceptionally low-mileage vehicles in the W124 range.
 

Record-Breaking Auctions
Even more striking is that the $101,000 sale is not the highest record for an E300 Diesel on Bring A Trailer. In 2023, a 10,000-mile W124 E300 fetched an astonishing $152,607. These record-breaking figures underscore the strong market demand and the high regard in which collectors hold pristine examples of the W124. The enthusiasm for these models reflects a broader appreciation for their engineering integrity and the nostalgia they evoke.
 
Market Trends
The question of whether low-mileage W124 diesels are worth their substantial sale prices is open to debate. For some, these prices represent the intrinsic value of a meticulously engineered, timeless classic. For others, it may seem that the market has inflated beyond reason. Regardless, the continued high valuations of the W124 E-Class exemplify the enduring legacy and appeal of Mercedes-Benz’s engineering prowess. As market trends evolve, the W124’s status as an icon in automotive history remains undisputed.