The Mercedes-Benz M 102.924 is a 2,299 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1984 and 1992. It formed part of the M 102 engine family, featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8-valve configuration, and Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection. This engine delivered 100 kW (136 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 196 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, providing smooth performance for executive sedans and coupes of the era.
Fitted primarily to the W201 190E and W124 E-Class models, the M 102.924 was engineered for balanced driving dynamics, combining responsive mid-range power with long-term durability. Its emissions compliance met early European standards (Euro 1 precursor), supported by catalytic converter integration from 1985 onwards, and secondary air injection to reduce cold-start hydrocarbon emissions.
One documented concern is premature camshaft lobe wear, particularly in units subjected to extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Service Bulletin 02.04.92, is attributed to marginal lubrication under high-load conditions and suboptimal oil quality. Later production engines received revised camshaft materials and lifters, improving longevity across the M 102 series.
Production years 1984–1985 meet pre-catalyst emissions standards; 1985–1992 models comply with Euro 1 equivalent (EU Directive 83/351/EEC) depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Mercedes-Benz M 102.924 is a 2,299 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size platforms (1984–1992). It combines SOHC 8-valve architecture with Bosch K-Jetronic continuous fuel injection to deliver linear power delivery and robust reliability. Designed to meet early European emissions standards, it balances drivability with service longevity.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,299 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 96.6 mm × 78.2 mm | |
| Power output | 100 kW (136 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 196 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-cat (1984); Euro 1 equivalent (1985–1992) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (single-row), non-interference design | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SF/CC | |
| Dry weight | 158 kg |
The SOHC design provides predictable performance but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using SAE 10W-40 to prevent camshaft wear. API SF/CC specification oil is critical due to its zinc-based anti-wear additives protecting flat-tappet cam lobes. Extended idling or aggressive warm-up cycles should be avoided to reduce thermal stress on the K-Jetronic system. The mechanical fuel injection demands consistent fuel pressure and clean fuel lines to prevent misfires. Post-1985 models include catalytic converters and secondary air injection; these systems require periodic inspection to maintain emissions compliance and prevent backpressure issues. Timing chain inspections are recommended at 200,000 km, though failures are rare due to the non-interference layout.
Oil Specs: Requires API SF/CC (10W-40) specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 02.04.92). Compatible with MB 229.1 post-1990.
Emissions: Pre-cat standard applies to 1984 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 1 equivalent compliance from 1985 onwards under EU Directive 83/351/EEC.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades (RON 95) (Mercedes-Benz TIS Doc. A102-89).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A102-89, SIB 02.04.92
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Mercedes-Benz M 102.924 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W201/W124 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-fuel mixture tuning in the W201 and revised exhaust manifolds in the W124-and from 1985 the introduction of catalytic converters and secondary air injection created 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 starter motor (Mercedes-Benz TIS A102-89). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('A' for M 102 series). Pre-1985 models lack catalytic converters and have simpler exhaust routing; post-1985 units feature catalytic converters and secondary air injection. Critical differentiation from M 102.910: M 102.924 has Bosch K-Jetronic injection with fuel distributor on intake manifold, while M 102.910 uses carburettor. Service parts require model-year verification—camshafts for pre-1987 engines are incompatible with later wear-resistant variants (Mercedes-Benz SIB 02.04.92).
The M 102.924's primary reliability risk is camshaft lobe wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended oil intervals. Internal Mercedes-Benz service data from 1990 indicated a significant number of pre-1987 engines required camshaft replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show valve train noise as a common failure point in high-mileage examples. Infrequent oil changes and low-zinc oils accelerate wear, making adherence to specification and service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1984-1992) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1990-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ M102924.
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