The Mercedes-Benz E 500, part of the W212 facelift generation produced from April 2013 to July 2014, represented a high-performance variant within the E-Class lineup. Positioned as a premium offering, it slotted above the E 350 and E 400 models, providing a significant step up in power and luxury. This model year saw a refresh of the W212 platform, introducing updated styling, enhanced technology, and refined engine options. The E 500, with its naturally aspirated 4.7-liter V8 engine, catered to buyers seeking a blend of sophisticated performance and traditional Mercedes-Benz refinement. It was primarily sold in markets where larger displacement engines were still favored, including North America and select European countries.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class (W212, facelift 2013) |
| Type | E 500 V8 (408 Hp) 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | April, 2013 |
| End of production | July, 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 12.6 l/100 km (18.7 US mpg, 22.4 UK mpg, 7.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg, 31.7 UK mpg, 11.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 209 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.5 kg/Hp, 220.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.1 kg/Nm, 324.3 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 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12.3 l (13 US qt | 10.82 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1850 kg (4078.55 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2480 kg (5467.46 lbs.) |
| Max load | 630 kg (1388.91 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 540 l (19.07 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 84 kg (185.19 lbs.) |
| Length | 4879 mm (192.09 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2071 mm (81.54 in.) |
| Height | 1474 mm (58.03 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm (113.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1598 mm (62.91 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1614 mm (63.54 in.) |
| Front overhang | 849 mm (33.43 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1156 mm (45.51 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.28 m (37.01 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 245/40 R18; 245/35 R19 Rear wheel tires: 245/40 R18; 265/35 R18; 275/30 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 8.5J x 18; 8.5J x 19 Rear wheel rims: 8.5J x 18; 9J x 18; 9.5J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 500 is the M278.922 4.7-liter V8 engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and twin turbochargers to produce 408 horsepower at 5000-5750 rpm and 600 Nm (442.54 lb-ft) of torque between 1600-4750 rpm. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The use of turbocharging, combined with precise fuel delivery, provides a broad torque curve and responsive acceleration. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the rear wheels. Paired with the engine is the 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission. This transmission is known for its smooth shifts and efficiency, offering both manual and automatic shifting modes. The transmission’s gear ratios are optimized for both performance and fuel economy, contributing to the E 500’s refined driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The E 500 delivers a noticeably different driving experience compared to the four-cylinder or V6-powered E-Class models. The V8 engine provides effortless acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of approximately 4.7 seconds. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission complements the engine well, providing quick and smooth gear changes. While not as overtly sporty as some competitors, the E 500 offers a comfortable and confident ride. The air suspension, often equipped on this trim, further enhances ride quality by absorbing road imperfections. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback to the driver. Compared to the E 350, the E 500 offers a significant increase in power and torque, resulting in a more engaging and refined driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 500 typically came well-equipped with standard features such as leather upholstery, wood trim, a premium sound system, and a comprehensive suite of safety technologies. Common options included a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, a rear-seat entertainment system, and advanced driver-assistance features like lane keeping assist and adaptive cruise control. The interior design emphasized luxury and comfort, with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail. Trim levels were often differentiated by the choice of interior colors, wood veneers, and exterior styling elements.
Chassis & Braking
The E 500 utilized a sophisticated chassis design featuring an independent multi-link suspension at all four corners. Many models were equipped with Airmatic air suspension, which allowed for adjustable ride height and damping. This system provided a comfortable ride while also enhancing handling and stability. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) were standard features, enhancing safety and control. The E 500’s suspension and braking systems were tuned to complement the car’s increased power and weight.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 500 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, refined ride, and luxurious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the car’s fuel economy was relatively low compared to its competitors. Compared to the E 350, the E 500 offered a significant performance upgrade but came at a higher price. The E 400, with its twin-turbo V6, offered a compromise between performance and fuel economy. The E 500 appealed to buyers who prioritized power and luxury over fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The M278 engine, found in the E 500, is generally considered a reliable powerplant when properly maintained. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, spark plug replacements, and inspection of the turbochargers. While the engine is robust, the complex electronics and advanced features of the W212 E-Class can be prone to issues as the cars age. Today, the E 500 represents a compelling value on the used car market for those seeking a luxurious and powerful sedan. Its combination of performance, comfort, and features makes it a desirable option for enthusiasts and discerning buyers alike. The E 500 stands as a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to building high-performance luxury vehicles.
