The Mercedes-Benz E 500 BlueEFFICIENCY Coupe (C207) represents a high-performance variant within the second generation (C207) of the E-Class Coupe, produced from August 2011 to March 2013. Positioned as the flagship engine option, it offered a luxurious grand touring experience, blending substantial power with Mercedes-Benz’s renowned comfort and technology. This model occupied the premium segment of the C207 lineup, sitting above the E 350 and diesel-powered E 250 CDI, and catered to buyers seeking a powerful and refined coupe.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class Coupe (C207) |
| Type | E 500 BlueEFFICIENCY V8 (408 Hp) 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | August, 2011 |
| End of production | March, 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.7 l/100 km (18.5 US mpg, 22.2 UK mpg, 7.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg, 31.7 UK mpg, 11.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 209 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) – Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.2 kg/Hp, 237.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.9 kg/Nm, 348.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 408 Hp @ 5000-5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 87.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 600 Nm @ 1600-4750 rpm (442.54 lb.-ft. @ 1600-4750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 278.922 |
| Engine displacement | 4663 cm3 (284.55 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92.9 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.9 l (11.52 US qt | 9.59 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1720 kg (3791.95 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2250 kg (4960.4 lbs.) |
| Max load | 530 kg (1168.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 450 l (15.89 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (with brakes) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (without brakes) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4698 mm (184.96 in.) |
| Width | 1786 mm (70.31 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2015 mm (79.33 in.) |
| Height | 1397 mm (55 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2760 mm (108.66 in.) |
| Front track | 1538 mm (60.55 in.) |
| Rear track | 1544 mm (60.79 in.) |
| Front overhang | 855 mm (33.66 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1083 mm (42.64 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 360 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 300 mm |
| Front tires | 235/40 R18; 235/35 R19 |
| Rear tires | 255/35 R18; 255/30 R19 |
INTRODUCTION
The E 500 BlueEFFICIENCY Coupe, built on the W207 platform, represented a significant step up in performance and luxury compared to the four-door E-Class sedan. Introduced as part of the C207 coupe range, it aimed to provide a more sporting and dynamic driving experience while retaining the comfort and refinement expected of a Mercedes-Benz. The “BlueEFFICIENCY” designation indicated the inclusion of fuel-saving technologies, though the focus remained firmly on delivering substantial power. Production spanned a relatively short period, from August 2011 to March 2013, making it a relatively rare variant within the C207 lineage.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the E 500 BlueEFFICIENCY Coupe lies the M278.922 4.7-liter V8 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated powerplant featuring direct fuel injection and twin turbochargers. The M278 engine family was a significant development for Mercedes-Benz, incorporating features like spray-guided direct injection and multi-spark ignition for improved efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine produces 408 horsepower at 5000-5750 rpm and a robust 600 Nm (442.54 lb-ft) of torque available from a low 1600 rpm to 4750 rpm. This broad torque curve, combined with the 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission, provides effortless acceleration and strong in-gear performance. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission is known for its smooth and quick shifts, contributing to the overall refined driving experience. It features a torque converter lock-up clutch that engages early to improve efficiency and reduce slippage.
Driving Characteristics
The E 500 BlueEFFICIENCY Coupe delivers a distinctly grand touring experience. The combination of the powerful V8 engine and the smooth-shifting 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission results in brisk acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.8 seconds and a limited top speed of 155 mph. While not overtly sporty, the coupe handles confidently, with well-weighted steering and a composed chassis. Compared to the E 350 Coupe, the E 500 offers a significantly more potent power delivery, making overtaking and highway cruising effortless. The automatic transmission is well-tuned for both relaxed cruising and more spirited driving, offering manual shift capability for greater driver control. The gear ratios are optimized for both acceleration and fuel efficiency, providing a balance between performance and economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 500 BlueEFFICIENCY Coupe came standard with a high level of equipment, befitting its flagship status. Standard features typically included leather upholstery, wood trim, a premium sound system, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a host of safety features such as ABS, ESP, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included features like a panoramic sunroof, advanced driver assistance systems (such as lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring), and upgraded interior trim options. The interior design emphasized luxury and comfort, with a focus on high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship.
Chassis & Braking
The C207 E-Class Coupe featured a sophisticated chassis design, with a multi-link suspension at both the front and rear. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The E 500 Coupe typically came equipped with larger brakes than the lower-trim models, featuring ventilated discs at all four corners. Front brakes measured 360mm, while rear brakes were 300mm. This provided ample stopping power to match the car’s performance capabilities. The steering system utilized a hydraulic power steering rack and pinion, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 500 BlueEFFICIENCY Coupe was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, refined ride, and luxurious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the coupe’s weight and size limited its agility compared to more focused sports coupes. Compared to the E 350 Coupe, the E 500 offered a substantial performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. Fuel economy, while respectable for a V8-powered coupe, was lower than that of the E 350 or the diesel-powered E 250 CDI. Reliability was generally good, consistent with Mercedes-Benz’s reputation, although the complexity of the engine and transmission could potentially lead to higher maintenance costs.
Legacy
The E 500 BlueEFFICIENCY Coupe (C207) remains a desirable vehicle in the used car market, particularly for those seeking a luxurious and powerful grand tourer. The M278 V8 engine is known for its durability and performance, although regular maintenance is essential to ensure its longevity. While not as common as other E-Class variants, the E 500 Coupe offers a unique combination of performance, luxury, and refinement that continues to appeal to enthusiasts today. Its relatively short production run and limited numbers contribute to its collectibility, making it a sought-after model among Mercedes-Benz aficionados.
