M119 vs M104

Side-by-side reliability comparison

Higher reliability score
M104 BEST 85/100
+13 points over M119
0 / 100
ACCEPTABLE M119 Mercedes-Benz
0 / 100
BEST M104 Mercedes-Benz

Specifications

M119
M104
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz
Verdict
ACCEPTABLE
BEST
Reliability
72
85
Years
1989--1998
1990--1997
Displacement
4973 cc
3199 cc
Layout
V8
I6
Type
Petrol Na
Petrol Na
Power
326--381 hp
193--231 hp
Known Issues
1
1
Total Risk Cost
€500--€2,000
€500--€2,000

Character

M119

"W124 500E/E500, R129 SL500, W140 S500 V8. DOHC 32V. Wiring harness issue (biodegradable). Ignition system needs attention at high mileage. Strong engine, expensive to maintain."

M104

"W124/R129/W140 inline-6. One of Mercedes' most reliable engines. Bulletproof bottom end. Wiring harness biodegrades (uses soy-based insulation). Head gasket solid. 400k+ km possible."

Issues Comparison

M119 1

▲ HIGH
Wiring harness biodegradation €500--€2,000 80,000 km--150,000 km

M104 1

▲ HIGH
Wiring harness biodegradation €500--€2,000 100,000 km--200,000 km
Full M119 Report Full M104 Report