1990 Mercedes-Benz 300-Class Reviews, Pricing & Specs
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For 1990, the versatile Mercedes-Benz 300-class formed the backbone of automaker's midsize lineup. Trim packages included a 300CE coupe with a new single-cam 3.0-liter, 6-cylinder engine that pumped out a peppy 217 hp, and a 300SL convertible with a 3.0-liter, 228-hp engine. Other models, including the 300E, SE, and SEL sedans, and the 300SL and the 300TE wagon, came with a 177-hp 3.0-liter single-cam engine.
A 4-speed automatic transmission was standard across all models of the 300-class, as was a new fuel-injection system, anti-lock brakes, and airbags for the driver and passenger. Power windows, power door locks, air conditioning, and a cassette player were also standard for all models.
Options included a five-speed automatic overdrive and a sunroof (except for the SL convertible model, of course). Leather seats were standard on the 300E, SE, SEL, and E 4MATIC sedans, on the SL convertible, and on the CE Coupe. They were available as an option on the other models.
Published Aug 9, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
User reviews for 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300-Class
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by Sasha M
Oct 10, 2021
The W124 chassis is possibly one of the greatest in Mercedes Benz history. The 300CE is the epitome of understated luxury, incredibly comfortable, happy and stable at high speeds, and very pleasing to drive in town. The shape and interior are timeless and this is a car that will always look good. Find one with maintenance records so that you’re not sinking a lot of money into deferred maintenance. I absolutely love driving this car. I purchased mine in Kansas City- drove it to a business meeting in Louisville KY, and then drove it home to Atlanta. 1,126 miles in 3 days and the Mercedes was a champ. If you find a good one, don’t think twice and make it yours! Oct 10, 2021
by Doug P
Jan 17, 2014
This car is still a good looking and driving car for its age. I think when you add up all the pros and cons the pros outweigh the negatives. Parts are plentiful and most are affordable.
These go for more than 2-3 hundred thousand miles easily.Jan 17, 2014
by Anonymous
Apr 20, 2013
I owned a 1990 300E from Sep. 2011 to Dec. 2012. I bought the car with around 220,000 miles and though it was far from perfect due to age and mileage I have never been more impressed by a vehicle and I have owned a few Bimmers also. The build quality and sheer durability of almost every component of this car still blows my mind. The doors shut with a vault-like slam of solidity. Everything looked, felt, and smelled of high quality even after 22 years. I replaced a window regulator, heater blower fan, few suspension components, and maybe a few other small things. Car handled very well with the classic big Benz spring-loaded cloud type feel. This is an incredible car on the highway. Words just are not enough. If only they still made them like this, I would buy another in a heartbeat.Apr 20, 2013
User rating:
by Sasha M
Oct 10, 2021
The W124 chassis is possibly one of the greatest in Mercedes Benz history. The 300CE is the epitome of understated luxury, incredibly comfortable, happy and stable at high speeds, and very pleasing to drive in town. The shape and interior are timeless and this is a car that will always look good. Find one with maintenance records so that you’re not sinking a lot of money into deferred maintenance. I absolutely love driving this car. I purchased mine in Kansas City- drove it to a business meeting in Louisville KY, and then drove it home to Atlanta. 1,126 miles in 3 days and the Mercedes was a champ. If you find a good one, don’t think twice and make it yours! Oct 10, 2021
by Doug P
Jan 17, 2014
This car is still a good looking and driving car for its age. I think when you add up all the pros and cons the pros outweigh the negatives. Parts are plentiful and most are affordable.
These go for more than 2-3 hundred thousand miles easily.Jan 17, 2014
by Anonymous
Apr 20, 2013
I owned a 1990 300E from Sep. 2011 to Dec. 2012. I bought the car with around 220,000 miles and though it was far from perfect due to age and mileage I have never been more impressed by a vehicle and I have owned a few Bimmers also. The build quality and sheer durability of almost every component of this car still blows my mind. The doors shut with a vault-like slam of solidity. Everything looked, felt, and smelled of high quality even after 22 years. I replaced a window regulator, heater blower fan, few suspension components, and maybe a few other small things. Car handled very well with the classic big Benz spring-loaded cloud type feel. This is an incredible car on the highway. Words just are not enough. If only they still made them like this, I would buy another in a heartbeat.Apr 20, 2013
by Anonymous
Dec 06, 2011
This car looks awesome. I love the classic Mercedes exterior, but in a coupe! The interior is traditional Mercedes, but with a bit of added luxury. Great choice of materials. Nice strong engine. Good road feel and gives you much confidence. Handles well for an older car. Great visibility! A few expensive repairs were needed, which always decreases the enjoyment.Dec 06, 2011
by Fadil D
Nov 13, 2011
The best car I have ever had and still drive it. Especially if I realize that actually Mercedes-Benz made its highest quality cars from overall aspects only until the 1998's. The W124 is indeed its product with most inovations.Nov 13, 2011
by Alex M
Jul 26, 2011
We found this car the same day it had been traded in at a Mercedes dealer; they hadn't even cleaned it yet. It is a Japan LHD import, with 47,000 original miles (which is RIDICULOUSLY low), a Webasto engine oil heater, heated seats, the original Becker radio, and a flawless interior.
Needless to say we snatched this sucker off the lot before the dealer knew what hit him. A couple of spark plug wires, a tube of grease, a window regulator, and a windshield washer pump later, this car is the most reliable we own and drives like it just came off the lot. It has the bulletproof Mercedes-Benz M103 engine with no oil leaks, and an idle that will pass the quarter test.
I learned to parallel park in one of these....They may lumber a bit, and yes the gas mileage is never wonderful, but this is the best riding/driving highway cruiser I have ever driven. Jul 26, 2011
by Anonymous
Nov 26, 2010
Remember your not buying this car for its power...Its giving me over 20 MPG. Both the interior and exterior are in excellent condition. I have put in a rebuilt tranny less then 7000 miles upper and lower ball joints passenger side, new tires head gasket seal, rear shocks, rebuilt and recharged A/C, this is by far one of the cleanest 300's for this year you ll ever see!! Nov 26, 2010
by Budi S
Jan 10, 2010
This car is the member E-Class type of Mercedes Benz,
thus no doubt for its luxury and convenience.
This car has 2.3L 4 cylinder engine which is very powerful.
But the suspension is not softer as the Masterpiece
generation, but still convenience fro everyday driving.
The interior is very luxury, with electric seat, leather seat
and automatic transmission, makes this car is the most
luxury European sedan in 90's era.
and the most important is this type of Mercedes Benz use
conventional engine (less electrical) makes it easy to
maintain.Jan 10, 2010
by Reginald Victor S
Oct 25, 2009
I loved everything about this car except for the cost of
gas and the type of gas needed for it to run properly.
This vehicle had the build quality that made it
something I was proud to own. Mercedes knows how
to make a vehicle!Oct 25, 2009
by T.k. S
Oct 24, 2009
This car is a classic Mercedes Benz. I have 2 problems with this
car before and I still do. But when the car was actually
working, it was the best Benz on the road. This car was very
fun to drive. You get a lot of attention. The sound system is
very clear and loud.Oct 24, 2009
by Christopher W
Oct 07, 2009
Performance - good for 3.0l station wagon
Build Quality - car feels solid. I replaced some rubber parts and 1 wheel bearing
Appearance - classic 80's mercedes
Cost of Ownership - gas mileage, I once got 28 but have also frequently gotten 16, maintenance
Fun Factor - its somewhat fun to sriveOct 07, 2009
by Justin L
Aug 16, 2009
acceleration isnt that great until you get up to about 3 or 4k rpm, then itll suprise you. brakes good considering the size and weight of the car. rides like a caddie but corners like a lancer. amazing build quality, everything is solid. looks kinda laid back, nothing sporty or anything. lots of leather and elegance on the inside. mileage isnt too bad, supposed to get about 22 mpg, havent had a chance to check it yet, but its around there. its a great driver, seems to always want to go fasterAug 16, 2009
by Dominic G
Jul 09, 2009
you wouldnt think that a 14 year old owns this would ya, BUT I DO! HA! its my baby, all perfect leather interior 2.6l L6 190 hp, Drives like it just came off the lot. i would deffinetely sugeest other people to buy one, because is sexy as hell.Jul 09, 2009
by Trina N
Jun 10, 2009
The straight six is surprisingly torquey. The 4 matic system keeps it glued to the road. We acquired the car in Jan.09 and replaced brakes, cruise module, changed oil and otherwise thorough going over. The exterior is pristine(original paint). Imported from Japan had low kms and the leather looks brand new. Only problem is the material pulling away from the b-pillars. Easy to fix. Mileage has been consistently over 25 mph and maitenance so far had been adding a bit of oil between changes and topping up the 4-matic's hydraulic oil. I love this car. It is solid on the road yet very comfortable. Only option missing is tilt/telescoping wheel.Jun 10, 2009
by Andrew G
Jan 08, 2009
The car has a sleek exterior, mostly sharp lines gives it a perstegious look. The tires are wide to have a better grip on the road. the engine has a fine rumble to it and its a solidly built vehicle. The cons are that parts are expenisve and it requires premium gasoline. The moon roof makes it fun to drive in the summer so no need for AC.Jan 08, 2009
by Patrick K
Dec 31, 2008
My Merc had 90K miles on it when I bought it Sept. 07.
The previous 2 owners had taken great care of the car, averaging about 5K miles per year. They body is almost perfect, with just a few small dings, and very good paint. The interior looked showroom even had the original plastic covering front and rear door sills.
Unfortunately neither owner had followed the recommended service schedule. They did service based only on mileage, and with so little mileage per year lots of things were dried up and worn out before they were changed. Tranny fluid and filter, fan belts, air filters were left in the car for years.
Luckily, after replacing all of the fluids, belts, filters, brake pads, radiator and water pump everything is now fine and dandy.
Car is Nautical blue with Palomino leather. Beautiful.
Everything is stock, except for a 10 CD changer
in the trunk and some coco fiber floor mats.
Performance is mediocre at best - its just a 3 litre six, but once you get to 3000 rpm it starts to pull pretty good. Freeway speeds are effortless and smooth.
Transmission is smooth and quiet. Brakes are very good, but pedal effort is pretty high. Stops are straight, and fade is minimal in normal conditions.
Air conditioning is great, but it probably need a recharge soon. That could be a problem, as it uses the old Freon.
There are NO squeaks or rattles, little wind noise and no loose or ill-fitting parts.
Two things need attention. The cruise control is inoperative, and I need to replace both front door speakers. The crusie is way too expensive to consider -could be near $900 to fix everything, and the speakers will be difficult to replace and keep stock-looking.
So, cost of ownership is high. I paid a high price for the car, and OEM replacement parts are insanely expensive.
But the solidness of the ride, high build quality along with classic looks make it a great car.Dec 31, 2008
by Anonymous
Nov 24, 2008
My 1990 300 E is a very well made car. The acceleration is a little sluggish sometimes, but when pressed, it can thrust forward when needed. The car is almost 20 years old and still drives and looks like a much newer car. The car has no rattles on bumpy roads which is remarkable for a car of this age. The styling is a little dated in comparison to the streamline models of 2008, but it's style is timeless. The car should hold its own in its classic look for years to come.
I am amazed at how a mid-sized sedan can corner. Often it feels like the car is riding on rails around curves. The car is very nice to drive and to ride in. It's gas mileage is decent. I get around 22-24 miles to the gallon. Nov 24, 2008
by Simon L
Jun 26, 2008
I have owned my 1990 300CE since 2003 and it has been fantastic. Has 160k and still drives like new.Jun 26, 2008
by Alan P
Jun 13, 2008
i like the body and the looks of the car i just think it is a little too big and bulky.Jun 13, 2008
by Anonymous
Apr 20, 2008
Just bought one with only 88,000 miles. The previous owner (original) really took great care of this car. Everything works, exterior and interior look better than my 6 year old car. Drives smooth, with very few rattles. A joy to own.Apr 20, 2008
by Thomas V
Apr 02, 2008
Owned 1998-2000 A MB with all options, great comfort and safety. Pretty nice power... Apr 02, 2008
by Jacob N
Mar 31, 2008
Old but greatMar 31, 2008
by Zlatko V
Mar 23, 2008
1990, 300 CE with 12 valves developing 188hp, 4 gears auto transmition, 214 000 km, first owner, black exterior and interior, full leather interior, A/C, power windows (all around), power sunroof, 18 inch AMG alloy wheels, -40 mm H&R lowering springs, showroom condition, ...Mar 23, 2008
by Eric O
Mar 18, 2008
I'm sure it was an excellent car early in it's life, but once it hit 250,000 miles my Dad had to
keep it alive. Mar 18, 2008
by Marko P
Mar 06, 2008
300 TE bronz, Zender just loved itMar 06, 2008
by Anonymous
Jan 26, 2008
it gets good gas mileage Jan 26, 2008
by Flemming B
Jan 06, 2008
Love it, you can not do anything else.Jan 06, 2008
by Mike S
Jan 03, 2008
Built like a fricken tank, gets good gas mileage and runs on vegetable oil, looks like crap and runs it too. gets me from A-B for cheap.Jan 03, 2008
by Matt S
Dec 14, 2007
its a mercedes.. what more can i say?Dec 14, 2007
by Anonymous
Oct 15, 2007
You can drive for hours without tiring, everyone enjoys the ride from every seatOct 15, 2007
What users have asked
1990 300E -idles rough and stalls at stops
cold start is fine, after it warms up it idles rough and stalls at stops, sometimes it will restart most of time it wont start, I think the mixture is to rich for one. also noticed that when it doesnt restart i have been able to turn the ignition key back a second after it cranks it sputters and then starts, also when warmed up it will sometimes run fine in idle but , when i put it in gear it sputters and wants to die. sometimes it does die. other times it doesnt do it when in gear, but it will do it after its been running for 10 minutes or more. a
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Top Comparisons
Have you driven a 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300-Class?Compare this car
1990 Mercedes-Benz 300-Class Pricing
Original MSRP
$39,950 to $57,050Price range
N/AAverage price on CG
N/AYoY price change
N/ATrims & specs
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Driver side front airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: power · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Steering wheel: power telescopic · Sunshade: power rear window
Exterior Features
Paint: special factory paint
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Roof
Sunroof: power glass
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Driver side front airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: power · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Steering wheel: power telescopic · Sunshade: power rear window
Exterior Features
Paint: special factory paint
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Roof
Moonroof: power glass
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Driver side front airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: power · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: power telescopic · Sunshade: power rear window
Exterior Features
Paint: special factory paint
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Roof
Moonroof: power glass
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Driver side front airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: power · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Steering wheel: power telescopic
Exterior Features
Paint: special factory paint · Pickup tonneau cover: soft
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated
Roof
Moonroof: power glass
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Suspension
Leveling: self leveling suspension
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: power · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Steering wheel: power telescopic · Sunshade: power rear window
Exterior Features
Paint: special factory paint
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated
Roof
Moonroof: power glass
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Driver side front airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: power · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: passenger seat · Steering wheel: power telescopic · Sunshade: power rear window
Exterior Features
Paint: special factory paint
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated
Roof
Moonroof: power glass
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front and rear · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Driver side front airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: power · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Steering wheel: power telescopic · Sunshade: power rear window
Exterior Features
Paint: special factory paint
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated
Roof
Moonroof: power glass
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Driver side front airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: power · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Steering wheel: power telescopic
Exterior Features
Paint: special factory paint · Pickup tonneau cover: soft
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated
Roof
Sunroof: power glass
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: cloth
Suspension
Leveling: self leveling suspension
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: power · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: passenger seat · Steering wheel: power telescopic · Sunshade: power rear window
Exterior Features
Paint: special factory paint
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Roof
Moonroof: power glass
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Passenger Seating: 4 · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy