Once upon a time ... the window crank
08/06/2022
Not so long ago, even buyers of the most expensive Mercedes-Benz products had to pay a premium if they wanted the side windows of their car to lower electrically at the touch of a button. Small car drivers could only dream of such a luxury. However, like so many other things, the electric window regulator has become so democratized over the years that the classic crank handle is now rarely found in a new car.
For decades, the window crank was an integral part and therefore also a design feature of the door trim. Some manufacturers even created small sculptures with which the window could be lowered not only functionally, but also very attractively. In US products, there was often even a second crank for the triangular window.
In the USA, "power windows" had been an option in the middle class since the 1950s. Most Europeans had to crank the handle for another 20 years before they realized that the electric motors moved the windows up and down with significantly less arm movement, but also in twice the time. At least the driver could now operate all four windows from the comfort of their seat.
A problem that new car buyers once didn't have, but which annoys classic car owners all the more today: electric window regulators tend to break after 30 years. And then you're left with the salad when the replacement part is either impossible to find or costs as much as four whole doors including the crank window.
In general, all the electronic bits and pieces only make the car unnecessarily heavy. While many enthusiasts like to look for the Wolpertinger of "full equipment", especially in youngtimers, I prefer to follow the old principle that what is not there cannot be broken. This saves weight, nerves and money.
That's why my W124 has neither electric windows nor the coveted steel lifting roof. In fact, it has nothing at all that makes driving more pleasant by today's standards. It also lacks air conditioning. But that doesn't matter. If it gets too warm, I simply roll down the window.
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