KW V3 Coilover Suspension for the Mercedes-Benz W124 (E-Class)
The Mercedes-Benz W124 was built from 1984 to 1993 and was officially marketed as the E-Class starting in 1993. To this day, the vehicle is considered one of the most solid engineering designs in the upper midsize class. One of the factors responsible for this was the five-link rear suspension, which was technically groundbreaking for its time and gave the W124 excellent directional stability and a stable ride. Several decades after production ended, however, this comfort-oriented stock setup is showing its age: shock absorbers are losing their effectiveness, body movements are becoming noticeably pronounced, and the stock handling feels top-heavy. Our Mercedes W124 suspension, featuring independently adjustable compression and rebound damping as well as continuously variable lowering, brings the W124 up to modern standards without sacrificing its characteristic ride comfort.
KW V3 suspension system for the W124 model
The factory suspension
The W124 combines excellent directional stability, first-class comfort, and stable handling at high speeds. However, when driven briskly and sportily, this results in noticeable body movements. The dynamic handling potential of the axle design remains unaffected, however. In addition, many W124 models are now 30 years old or older. This is noticeable in the form of increased body roll in corners, longer body movements, and a generally less stable driving feel at higher speeds. A KW V3 significantly improves these aspects. Important: In addition to replacing the suspension, the other suspension components—such as bushings, stabilizer bars, and tie rods—should also be inspected regularly.
KW V3
The KW V3 coilover suspension gives the W124 noticeably more dynamic handling without sacrificing the model series’ legendary long-distance comfort. Thanks to independently adjustable compression and rebound damping, the handling can be precisely tailored to your needs. The precisely defined KW damper characteristics confidently control body movements and restore genuine confidence and pure driving pleasure behind the wheel. The perfect solution for W124 owners who don’t want to make their youngtimer unnecessarily stiff but rather enhance it with modern technology: The vehicle retains its original character, yet sits significantly more firmly and elegantly on the road thanks to the continuously adjustable lowering. Includes a parts certificate for completely legally compliant everyday use.
The 500 E: When Porsche Gets Involved
The 500 E holds a special place within the W124 series. Developed in collaboration with Porsche and assembled in Zuffenhausen, the 5.0-liter V8 combines a sporty 382 PS with the E-Class’s practicality for everyday use. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds. Due to its different axle design, the KW V3’s lowering range for the 500 E and its nearly identical sibling, the E 500, is 20 to 45 mm at the front and 20 to 40 mm at the rear.
Overview of our coilover kits
Technology Highlights
Customized lowering
This coilover suspension offers maximum possible lowering, customized to your vehicle model. You can also change this at any time after installation.
Adjustable rebound (low speed)
You'll notice the difference with every click! Here, you can adjust the low-speed rebound with 16 clicks. This adjusts the ride characteristics, making them either harder or more comfortable.
Adjustable compression damping (low speed)
You can fine-tune the low-speed compression damping even after installation. The vehicle's handling and stability will benefit from 12 clicks.
Composite spring disc
The height-adjustable KW spring plate is made from a resistant and friction-optimised polyamide composite material with a stainless steel insert. In contrast to anodised aluminium adjustable spring plates, the polyamide composite material prevents possible oxidation.
Additional technologies
Questions our Community is Talking About
What suspension system does the Mercedes W124 come with as standard?
The W124 features a strut-type front suspension with triangular control arms and a multi-link rear suspension based on the 5-link principle. This rear suspension was considered a technical highlight when the car was introduced and ensures excellent directional stability, ride comfort, and stable handling at high speeds.
Will my W124 feel stiff with a coilover suspension?
No. The KW V3 is adjustable independently of compression and rebound settings. This allows the damping to be specifically tuned for greater precision and reduced body movement without compromising the series’ fundamental comfort characteristics. The base setup maintains ride comfort while also improving control during spirited driving.
Does the KW V3 fit any W124 engine?
Yes, we offer the V3 for virtually the entire W124 engine lineup, from the four-cylinder E200 and E220 models to the top-of-the-line eight-cylinder E 500 and 500 E models. The lowering range varies between the standard engines and the top-of-the-line V8 model, depending on the axle design.
Will my W124 retain its H registration after the installation?
The KW V3 coilover suspension for the W124 comes with a parts certificate that governs its road approval. Whether an existing H-approval is retained depends on the individual assessment by the inspecting expert and must be considered separately from the parts certificate. This should be clarified in advance.