M272 vs M104

Side-by-side reliability comparison

Higher reliability score
M104 BEST 85/100
+35 points over M272
0 / 100
CAUTION M272 Mercedes-Benz
0 / 100
BEST M104 Mercedes-Benz

Specifications

M272
M104
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz
Verdict
CAUTION
BEST
Reliability
50
85
Years
2004--2012
1990--1997
Displacement
3498 cc
3199 cc
Layout
V6
I6
Type
Petrol Na
Petrol Na
Power
231--292 hp
193--231 hp
Known Issues
3
1
Total Risk Cost
€2,150--€5,500
€500--€2,000

Character

M272

"Smooth V6. Early models: balance shaft defect (class-action). Post-2008: better."

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

M272 3

◆ CRITICAL
Balance shaft sprocket wear — class-action €1,500--€4,000 60,000 km--150,000 km
● MODERATE
Intake manifold swirl flaps failure €400--€900 80,000 km--150,000 km
○ MINOR
Spark plugs + ignition coils €250--€600 80,000 km--150,000 km

M104 1

▲ HIGH
Wiring harness biodegradation €500--€2,000 100,000 km--200,000 km

Models

M272 13

C-Class W203 2005--2007 E-Class W211 2005--2009 SLK R171 2005--2008 CLK W209 2005--2009 CLK W209 2005--2009 C-Class W204 2007--2011 S-Class W221 2005--2013 E-Class W211 2005--2009 SLK R171 2004--2011 SL R230 2006--2011 CLK 350 C209 2005--2009 Coupe E 350 W212 2009--2016 Sedan ML 350 W164 2005--2011 SUV

M104 0

No models listed.

Full M272 Report Full M104 Report