The Mercedes-Benz M 102.922 is a 2,299 cc, inline-six petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1993. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), multi-point fuel injection (KE-Jetronic), and aluminium cylinder head construction. This naturally aspirated unit delivers 100 kW (136 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 196 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, designed for smooth linear power delivery and long-term durability in executive sedans and coupes.
Fitted to models such as the W201 190E, W124 E-Class, and C124 coupes, the M 102.922 was engineered for balanced performance and refinement in daily driving and highway cruising. Its design emphasizes mechanical reliability and ease of service, with emissions compliance achieved through catalytic converter integration and lambda feedback control, allowing Euro 1 compliance in post-1988 builds.
One documented service concern is degradation of the KE-Jetronic fuel distributor diaphragm, noted in Mercedes-Benz Technical Service Bulletin 01.03.89. This can lead to fuel mixture imbalance and cold-start hesitation. From 1989, revised fuel system components were introduced with improved elastomer materials, enhancing long-term sealing integrity and reducing emissions-related faults.
Production years 1985–1988 meet Euro 0 standards; 1989–1993 models comply with Euro 1 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Mercedes-Benz M 102.922 is a 2,299 cc inline-six petrol engine engineered for mid-size luxury vehicles (1985–1993). It combines KE-Jetronic continuous fuel injection with SOHC valvetrain architecture to deliver refined throttle response and mechanical durability. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards (post-1988), it balances smooth performance with evolving emissions requirements.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,299 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-6, SOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.9 mm × 67.5 mm | |
| Power output | 100 kW (136 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 196 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch KE-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 0 (pre-1989); Euro 1 (1989–1993) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft (single-row) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 MB 229.1 | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The naturally aspirated SOHC design provides smooth, linear power delivery ideal for relaxed driving, but requires consistent use of high-octane petrol (RON 98) to prevent knock and carbon buildup. SAE 10W-40 MB 229.1 oil is essential for maintaining hydraulic lifter function and camshaft lubrication. The KE-Jetronic system demands periodic inspection of fuel distributor and warm-up regulator components to prevent mixture drift. Cold-start performance relies on intact air-flow sensor seals and functional thermo-time switch operation. Post-1989 models benefit from upgraded elastomers in fuel and vacuum systems, improving long-term reliability. Lambda sensor and catalytic converter condition should be verified during emissions testing to ensure compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 MB 229.1 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 01.03.89). Compatible with ACEA A2-96.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to 1989–1993 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Pre-1989 units meet Euro 0.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output remains stable with proper fuel system maintenance (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A32150).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32150, A32151, SIB 01.03.89
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Power Measurement Standard
The Mercedes-Benz M 102.922 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W201/W124 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with AMG for early performance variants. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-longer intake manifolds in the W124 and compact ancillary layout in the W201-and from 1989 the facelifted W201 190E 2.3 models adopted revised fuel mapping and distributor upgrades, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (Mercedes-Benz TIS A32150). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('M' for M 102 series). Pre-1989 models have chrome-plated valve covers with black distributor caps; post-1989 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from M 102.985: M 102.922 has KE-Jetronic fuel injection with mechanical fuel distributor, while M 102.985 uses LH-Jetronic with electronic injectors. Service parts require chassis number verification - fuel distributors for pre-1989 models are incompatible with later units due to calibration differences (Mercedes-Benz SIB 01.03.89).
The M 102.922's primary reliability risk is fuel system degradation in KE-Jetronic components, with elevated incidence in long-term storage or infrequent use. Internal Mercedes-Benz field reports from 1991 indicated a significant share of pre-1989 units required fuel distributor servicing before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalytic converter failures in urban-driven vehicles. Extended idle periods and low-quality fuel accelerate diaphragm and seal wear, making fuel quality and system maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1985-1993) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1990-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M102922.
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