Last news in Fakti

A hidden secret of the Mercedes W124 or why this car rusts less than others

Function is much more than just design

Aug 13, 2025 11:36 835

A hidden secret of the Mercedes W124 or why this car rusts less than others  - 1

The Mercedes-Benz W124, produced from 1984 to 1997, is a legendary car known for its unsurpassed quality, strength and durability. It is often called "the last real Mercedes", and the company's engineers have put a number of unusual solutions into it that make it so special. One of the most interesting and little-known features is related to its design and safety.

At first glance, the W124 impresses with its classic, solid lines. But at the heart of this design is an ingenious idea. The car door, when closed, is designed to "bite" on the body seals, thus creating a practically leak-proof seal. This system not only protects the passenger compartment from moisture, dust and noise, but also contributes to the exceptional strength of the structure. In the event of an impact, instead of the door bending inward, it "locks" even more tightly to the body, becoming part of the strong frame of the car.

This engineering solution not only improves passive safety, but also has another, less obvious advantage. It provides almost absolute protection against corrosion in the area of the sills. Unlike most cars, where the sills are susceptible to rust, as they collect moisture and dirt, in the W124 the door completely covers them when closed. This protects them from external influences and extends the life of the car.

Another interesting feature that few people notice is the "single-blade wiper". This wiper is designed in such a way that it not only moves left and right, but also unfolds to the side in its final position to cover a larger area of the glass. This is an elegant and effective solution that guarantees excellent visibility, especially in bad weather.

These examples show that the Mercedes-Benz W124 is not just a beautiful car, but a work of engineering art, in which every detail has been thought out to ensure maximum safety, durability and comfort. It is no coincidence that the model is still a symbol of quality and reliability to this day.

A hidden secret of the Mercedes W124 or why this car rusts less than others