OM606 vs M104
Side-by-side reliability comparison
Higher reliability score
OM606
BEST
96/100
+11 points over M104
0
/ 100
BEST
OM606
Mercedes-Benz
0
/ 100
BEST
M104
Mercedes-Benz
Specifications
OM606
M104
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz
Verdict
BEST
BEST
Reliability
96
85
Years
1993--2001
1990--1997
Displacement
2996 cc
3199 cc
Layout
I6
I6
Type
Diesel
Petrol Na
Power
134--174 hp
193--231 hp
Known Issues
2
1
Total Risk Cost
€280--€700
€500--€2,000
Character
OM606
"Legendary. 500k+ miles documented. Tunable to 500hp. One of most reliable engines ever."
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
OM606 2
○ MINOR
Glow plug failure (only meaningful issue)
○ MINOR
Injection pump seal wear (age-related)
M104 1
▲ HIGH
Wiring harness biodegradation