The Mercedes M104 E28 engine was developed on the basis of the M104 E32 to replace the previous M103 E26. A new crankshaft was installed in the cylinder block of the 3.2-liter, with a piston stroke of 73.5 mm.
The cylinder head is similar to the M104 E32 with a variable valve timing system at the inlet. Fuel injection system – distributed injection. Intake manifold with variable geometry. The timing system uses a reliable two-row chain.
Mercedes R6 family: M103 E26, M103 E30, M104 E28, M104 E30, M104 E32, M256 E30.
Specifications
| Production years | 1992-1998 |
| Displacement, cc | 2799 |
| Fuel system | injector |
| Power output, hp | 193 – 197 |
| Torque output, Nm | 265 – 270 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R6 |
| Block head | aluminum 24v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 89.9 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 73.5 |
| Compression ratio | 9.2 – 10.0 |
| Features | no |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | at the intake |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-40 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 7.0 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 1/2 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for E280 W124) — city — highway — combined |
14.5 11.0 12.5 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~500 000 |
| Weight, kg | 195 |
The engine was installed on:
- Mercedes E-Class W124 in 1992 – 1995, E-Class W210 in 1995 – 1997;
- Mercedes S-Class W140 in 1992 – 1998;
- Mercedes C-Class W202 in 1993 – 1997;
- Mercedes SL-Class R129 in 1993 – 1998;
- SsangYong Chairman 1 (H) in 1997 – 2004;
- SsangYong Rexton 1 (RJ) in 2003 – 2006.
Disadvantages of the M104 E28 engine
- The main problem of power units of this series is numerous oil leaks.
- First of all, gaskets leak: U-shaped, cylinder head and oil filter heat exchanger.
- The viscous coupling of the fan often fails, which is very dangerous for the engine.
- This motor is very afraid of overheating, the cylinder head is bent almost immediately.
- You will get a lot of trouble under the hood wiring, as well as ignition coils.
Frequently asked questions about the Mercedes M104 E28
How much power does the Mercedes M104 E28 make?
The Mercedes M104 E28 develops 193 - 197 hp and 265 - 270 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Mercedes M104 E28 take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 7.0 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-40.
Does the Mercedes M104 E28 have a timing belt or chain?
The Mercedes M104 E28 uses a timing chain.
Is the Mercedes M104 E28 turbocharged?
No, the Mercedes M104 E28 is naturally aspirated.
Does the Mercedes M104 E28 need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Mercedes M104 E28 has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Mercedes M104 E28 last?
The typical lifespan of the Mercedes M104 E28 is ~500 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Mercedes M104 E28?
E280 W124: city 14.5, highway 11.0, combined 12.5 L/100 km.
What cars was the Mercedes M104 E28 installed on?
Mercedes E-Class W124 in 1992 - 1995, E-Class W210 in 1995 - 1997; Mercedes S-Class W140 in 1992 - 1998; Mercedes C-Class W202 in 1993 - 1997; Mercedes SL-Class R129 in 1993 - 1998; SsangYong Chairman 1 (H) in 1997 - 2004; SsangYong Rexton 1 (RJ) in 2003 - 2006.
What are the common problems of the Mercedes M104 E28?
The main problem of power units of this series is numerous oil leaks. First of all, gaskets leak: U-shaped, cylinder head and oil filter heat exchanger. All known problems.
