OM648 vs M104
Side-by-side reliability comparison
Higher reliability score
OM648
BEST
90/100
+5 points over M104
0
/ 100
BEST
OM648
Mercedes-Benz
0
/ 100
BEST
M104
Mercedes-Benz
Specifications
OM648
M104
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz
Verdict
BEST
BEST
Reliability
90
85
Years
2002--2006
1990--1997
Displacement
3222 cc
3199 cc
Layout
I6
I6
Type
Diesel
Petrol Na
Power
204 hp
193--231 hp
Known Issues
2
1
Total Risk Cost
€450--€1,100
€500--€2,000
Character
OM648
"Modern OM606 successor. Excellent highway cruiser. Strong torque."
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
OM648 2
● MODERATE
EGR valve fouling (city use)
○ MINOR
Glow plugs + injector seals
M104 1
▲ HIGH
Wiring harness biodegradation