1990 Mercedes-Benz 300TE

4dr Station Wagon

6-cyl. 2964cc/217hp MPFI

#1 Concours condition#1 Concours
#2 Excellent condition#2 Excellent
#3 Good condition#3 Good

$12,000*

+7.1%
#4 Fair condition#4 Fair
Value Graph04/2407/2410/24$2k$4k$6k$8k$10k$12kJan 2025

Forecasted valuesBeta

We have forecasted how much values for the 1984-1995 Mercedes-Benz W124 will change over the next year.
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1984-1995 Mercedes-Benz W124 stats
Highest sale
$666,300
Lowest sale
$230
Most recent sale
$32,550
Sales
1440
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Model overview

Model description

Mercedes-Benz hit its stride with the mid-range E-Class in 1985, introducing a number of features which are taken for granted today. The 1986 300E featured a fuel-injected SOHC 3-liter six-cylinder engine developing 177 bhp. Although it was a big, heavy luxury car, it could outperform contemporary sports cars like the Porsche 944 and IROC Camaro, with a top speed of 140 mph and 0-60 mph in 7.8 seconds.

The E-Class was faster than the larger S-Class 380 and 500 models, but could also be driven carefully to manage 30 mpg on the highway. Most came with a four-speed automatic, while a five-speed manual gearbox was a rare option early on. ABS was standardized in 1985. The 4-Matic all-wheel drive system was offered from 1990-93 in the U.S., and was considered state-of-the-art.

The W124 replaced the blunt W123 and featured a coefficient of drag as low as .028 thanks to the aerodynamic nose, smooth body and belly pans. The five-link rear suspension is now commonly used and a semi-Citroen rear system was self-leveling. It used struts and gas spheres, though the ride height was fixed, and maintained by coil springs at rest.

The single wiper employed an eccentric cam to enable to to sweep almost to the windshield corner. Optional rear headrests could fold down when not needed to improve visibility. The exhaust was also fitted with the first oxygen sensor to enable the engine to run more efficiently.

Progress was steady and subtle. A passenger airbag arrived in 1989, the interior was upgraded in 1990 and the stereo improved in 1991, the same year that ASR traction control was introduced. ASR used the brakes to slow slipping wheels and was so sophisticated that it practically replaced the heavy, expensive and complicated 4-Matic system in all but the most severe conditions.

A 300TD turbo diesel wagon was offered in 1987, while the 177 bhp gasoline powered version replaced it in 1988. Both have four-speed automatic transmissions. Both have self-leveling rear suspension and can carry 1,250 lbs.

For those looking for performance, the short-wheelbase 300CE coupe arrived in 1988, with plastic lower body cladding. It gained variable valve timing a a four-valve head in 1990, while the transmission was revised in 1991 to start in first gear instead of second, for a considerable improvement in performance. A 217 bhp, DOHC 3-liter engine was fitted in 1993 and the coupe was renamed the E320 in 1994.

The E-Class raised the bar significantly for mid-range sedans, coupes and wagons and good examples remain handsome and competitive today. That said, there are some problem areas. The air conditioning is notorious for automatic climate control problems, the switch pad can fail, and compressors are fragile. The Becker Grand Prix radio is also unreliable. Early cars need valve seals to be upgraded to Viton, while alkaline U.S. antifreeze can attack the plastic pipes.

Deferred maintenance can be frustrating and expensive, as almost all systems are complicated, including accessory belt drives, suspension flex discs and ABS brakes. Expect thorough records and insist on a pre-purchase inspection.

Vehicle specifications

  • Wheel Base Shortest - Inches110.2
  • Wheel Base Longest - Inches110.2
  • Shipping Weight3560
  • Drive TypeRWD
  • Manufacturer NameDaimler-Chrysler
  • Front Tire Size15R195
  • Manufacturer MSRP49650
  • Market SegmentationFull Size Luxury Car
  • Manufacturer CodeC127
  • Front Tire Size Code29

Equipment

  • StandardOptional
  • Power BrakesYes
  • Power SteeringYes
  • EntertainmentAM/FM CASS
  • Air ConditioningYes
  • Power WindowsYes
  • Roof DescriptionPower Sun/Moon Roof
  • Anti-Lock BrakingAll Wheel

Equipment

Standard

  • Power BrakesYes
  • Power SteeringYes
  • EntertainmentAM/FM CASS
  • Air ConditioningYes
  • Power WindowsYes
  • Roof DescriptionPower Sun/Moon Roof
  • Anti-Lock BrakingAll Wheel
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Common Questions

The value of a 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300TE can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $12,000 for a 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300TE in good condition with average spec.

The highest selling price of a 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300TE at auction over the last three years was $19,687. The highest prices are usually reserved for rare or exceptionally well-maintained examples with desirable features or modifications and excellent history.

The lowest selling price of a 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300TE at auction over the last three years was $5,786. The lowest prices are usually paid for examples that have extensive maintenance needs, differ greatly from their original configuration, or have accident histories or title problems.

In the last three years there have been 9 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300TEs sold at public auction.

The most recent auction sale of a 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300TE was $6,891 on January 02, 2025 by Collecting Cars.

Many factors can increase a car's value including excellent condition, exceptional originality, a recent restoration, low mileage, unique provenance, desirable options, popular or unique color choices, and excellent maintenance records. Upgrades and modifications that enhance performance or aesthetics can also add value.

Factors that can decrease a car's value include unusually high mileage, poor maintenance history, visible wear and tear, accidents or damage, title issues, and gaps in ownership history. Additionally, less popular color choices and extensive modifications that don't appeal to a broad audience can reduce value.

Mileage plays a significant role in a classic car’s value. Lower mileage usually increases value because it indicates a higher degree of originality, is rarer, and suggests less wear and tear. However, cars with exceptionally low mileage may also have maintenance needs due to lack of use. Whether someone should pay more for a vehicle with lower miles will depend on how they plan on using it, and the vehicle's specific condition.

The value of modified cars differs widely based on the type and quality of modifications. While some modifications can significantly increase value, especially performance enhancements and high-quality custom work, others may not add much or could even detract from the car’s value if they appeal to only a limited audience.

All prices shown here are based on various data sources, as detailed in About Our Prices. The Hagerty Price Guide is for informational purposes only and is not intended as financial advice. More information on how forecast models are calculated can be found on Forecasted Values page. For additional information and a complete description of benefits, visit hagerty.com/legal. Purchase of insurance not required for membership in HDC. Hagerty, Hagerty Valuation Tools & Hagerty Drivers Club are registered trademarks of The Hagerty Group LLC, ©2025 The Hagerty Group, LLC. All Rights Reserved. The Hagerty Group, LLC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hagerty, Inc.