So, you’ve just picked up a beautiful 1994 Mercedes E320 Convertible? Congratulations! It’s a fantastic vehicle, blending classic Mercedes luxury with open-top driving pleasure. Like many owners of these iconic cars, you might find yourself wanting to modernize certain aspects while retaining its timeless charm. One common area for improvement is the original sound system. While functional, the stock stereo in the 1994 Mercedes E320 convertible often leaves something to be desired, especially for those accustomed to modern audio features like iPod connectivity and superior sound quality.
You’re not alone in considering a stereo upgrade for your 1994 Mercedes E320 convertible. Many enthusiasts face the same questions when looking to replace the factory system. Let’s address some of the common queries and provide insights to guide your upgrade journey.
Decoding Your Stock 1994 Mercedes E320 Convertible Audio System
Understanding the existing system is the first step. Decoding the VIN can reveal valuable information about your 1994 Mercedes E320 convertible‘s original audio setup. Based on typical configurations for this model year, you might find components like:
- Becker Radio Mexico cassette: A classic head unit, but dated by today’s standards.
- Active bass loudspeaker system: Indicating the presence of a separate amplifier and potentially dedicated woofers.
- Specific radio models for the USA market: Like the “MB-Exquisit – USA” radio, tailored for regional preferences.
Common speaker locations in a 1994 Mercedes E320 convertible include approximately 5″ speakers in the dash and slightly larger 5 1/4″ speakers in the doors and rear areas. It’s also understood that in many of these systems, the door speakers are primarily woofers, powered by a factory amplifier located in the trunk.
Common Upgrade Questions for the 1994 Mercedes E320 Convertible Stereo
When planning an aftermarket stereo installation in your 1994 Mercedes E320 convertible, several questions frequently arise. Let’s break down these concerns:
1. Aftermarket Adapter Harness Compatibility
The most immediate question is whether you can utilize an aftermarket adapter harness to connect a new head unit, like an Alpine model, to the existing wiring. The good news is that yes, adapter harnesses are generally available for Mercedes-Benz models of this era. These harnesses simplify the installation process by providing plug-and-play connectivity, tapping into the factory speaker wiring and power sources without requiring extensive wire cutting or splicing. This approach also allows for easier reversal to the original system if desired in the future.
2. Speaker Size and Fitment in a 1994 E320 Convertible
Upgrading the speakers is crucial for improved sound quality. For the 1994 Mercedes E320 convertible, you’ll want to confirm speaker sizes and available mounting depth.
- Dash Speakers: While typically around 5″, some owners have successfully installed slightly larger 5.25″ speakers with minor modifications, often involving some “shaving” of the mounting area. When selecting dash speakers, pay close attention to mounting depth and magnet width to ensure they fit within the available space without obstruction.
- Rear and Door Speakers: These locations generally accommodate 5 1/4″ speakers. Again, depth and magnet size are important considerations. It’s advisable to research specific speaker models that others have successfully installed in a W124 convertible (the chassis designation for this E-Class generation) and gather information on any fitment challenges they encountered. Online forums dedicated to Mercedes-Benz W124 models are excellent resources for this type of information.
When choosing speakers, consider your sound preferences and budget. Brands like Infinity and Alpine are popular choices for aftermarket car audio upgrades, offering a range of options in terms of performance and price.
3. Utilizing the Factory Amplifier and Door Woofers
A common question is whether to retain and utilize the factory amplifier and door woofers. Some audio installers suggest leaving the factory amplifier and door woofers in place, even when upgrading the head unit and other speakers. The rationale is that the door woofers can contribute some low-end bass, and bypassing them would require running new wiring to the doors, potentially adding complexity to the installation.
Using the factory amplifier with an aftermarket head unit is possible with the correct adapter and wiring configuration. However, keep in mind that the factory amplifier is designed to work with the original head unit’s output characteristics. For optimal sound quality and control, especially if you plan to upgrade to higher-power speakers later, replacing the factory amplifier with an aftermarket amplifier is generally recommended. However, for a simpler initial upgrade focusing on the head unit and main speakers, retaining the factory amp for the door woofers can be a viable option to simplify the installation.
4. Functionality Loss and Potential Issues
When replacing the stock head unit in a 1994 Mercedes E320 convertible, you might wonder about potential loss of functionality:
- Antenna Operation: Typically, aftermarket head units can be wired to control the factory power antenna, ensuring it still goes up and down as expected. Adapter harnesses often include provisions for antenna control.
- Factory Amplifier Switching: Similarly, the adapter harness should handle the switching of the factory amplifier if you choose to continue using it.
- Speed-Sensitive Volume: Some older Mercedes models had a speed-sensitive volume feature. Aftermarket head units generally do not support this specific function. However, most users find this to be a non-issue as modern head units offer sophisticated volume controls and often better overall sound quality, negating the need for speed-sensitive adjustments.
5. Head Unit Removal Process for a W124 Convertible
The process for removing the head unit in a 1994 Mercedes E320 convertible (W124 chassis) may differ slightly from earlier sedan models. While some guides for W124 stereos might suggest removing center console components, it’s often possible to remove the head unit in the convertible without extensive disassembly. Specific removal instructions can vary based on the exact model and trim level, so consulting a repair manual or online resources specific to the 1994 Mercedes E320 convertible or W124 cabriolet is recommended for detailed step-by-step guidance.
Conclusion: Enjoying Modern Sound in Your Classic Convertible
Upgrading the stereo in your 1994 Mercedes E320 convertible is a worthwhile project to enhance your driving experience. By understanding the existing system, addressing common questions, and planning your installation carefully, you can achieve significantly improved sound quality and modern features while preserving the classic character of your Mercedes. With readily available adapter harnesses and a range of aftermarket audio components, bringing your 1994 Mercedes E320 convertible‘s sound system into the 21st century is entirely achievable.
