M273 vs M104

Side-by-side reliability comparison

Higher reliability score
M104 BEST 85/100
+40 points over M273
0 / 100
AVOID M273 Mercedes-Benz
0 / 100
BEST M104 Mercedes-Benz

Specifications

M273
M104
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz
Verdict
AVOID
BEST
Reliability
45
85
Years
2005--2012
1990--1997
Displacement
5461 cc
3199 cc
Layout
V8
I6
Type
Petrol Na
Petrol Na
Power
340--388 hp
193--231 hp
Known Issues
2
1
Total Risk Cost
€2,200--€5,400
€500--€2,000

Character

M273

"Same sprocket problem as M272. Powerful but risky early models."

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

M273 2

◆ CRITICAL
Idler gear sprocket wear — same class-action as M272 €1,800--€4,500 60,000 km--150,000 km
○ MINOR
Spark plugs + ignition coils (8 of each) €400--€900 80,000 km--150,000 km

M104 1

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

Models

M273 1

S-Class W221 2006--2011

M104 0

No models listed.

Full M273 Report Full M104 Report