The Mercedes-Benz E 500 T-modell, part of the S212 facelift series produced from April 2013 to July 2014, represented the performance pinnacle of the E-Class wagon range. Positioned as the flagship variant, it combined the practicality of a station wagon (estate) with the power of a naturally aspirated 4.7-liter V8 engine. This model occupied the premium segment, offering a luxurious and capable vehicle for buyers prioritizing both space and performance. It was a relatively short-lived production run, bridging the gap between the pre-facelift S212 and the subsequent W213 generation E-Class.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class T-modell (S212, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 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 | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 12.9 l/100 km (18.2 US mpg, 21.9 UK mpg, 7.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 9.3 l/100 km (25.3 US mpg, 30.4 UK mpg, 10.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 216 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5 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 | 4.7 kg/Hp, 213.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.2 kg/Nm, 314.1 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 | 1910 kg (4210.83 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2580 kg (5687.93 lbs.) |
| Max load | 670 kg (1477.1 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 695 l (24.54 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1950 l (68.86 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 | 4905 mm (193.11 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2071 mm (81.54 in.) |
| Height | 1507 mm (59.33 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2874 mm (113.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1583 mm (62.32 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1604 mm (63.15 in.) |
| Front overhang | 849 mm (33.43 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1182 mm (46.54 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 500 T-modell was the M278.922 4.7-liter V8 engine. This engine featured direct fuel injection and twin turbochargers, delivering a substantial 408 horsepower and 600 Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque. The engine utilized a sophisticated combustion process designed for both performance and efficiency. The valvetrain employed Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission was specifically tuned to handle the engine’s power output, offering smooth and responsive gear changes. This transmission featured a torque converter lock-up clutch for improved fuel economy at cruising speeds.
Driving Characteristics
The E 500 T-modell offered a compelling blend of performance and practicality. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was achieved in approximately 4.8 seconds, making it a genuinely quick wagon. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission provided seamless shifts, and the engine’s broad torque curve ensured strong acceleration in any gear. Compared to the E 350 variants, the E 500 offered a significantly more powerful driving experience. While the E 350 provided adequate performance for most drivers, the E 500 catered to those seeking a more engaging and exhilarating ride. The air suspension, standard on this model, contributed to a comfortable and controlled ride quality, even when fully loaded.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 500 T-modell came standard with a high level of equipment, reflecting its position as the range-topping variant. Standard features included leather upholstery, wood trim, a premium sound system, navigation, and a host of driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded leather packages, and various customization options. The interior design was luxurious and refined, with a focus on comfort and convenience.
Chassis & Braking
The E 500 T-modell featured a fully independent suspension system with multi-link setups at both the front and rear. Air suspension was standard, providing adjustable ride height and damping. This system allowed drivers to tailor the ride quality to their preferences and driving conditions. 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 safety features.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 500 T-modell was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and refined driving experience. However, its relatively high price tag limited its appeal to a niche market. Compared to other high-performance wagons, such as the Audi RS6 Avant or the BMW M5 Touring (not officially sold in the US during this period), the E 500 offered a more comfortable and refined experience, albeit with slightly less outright performance. Fuel economy, while respectable for a V8 engine, was a concern for some buyers, with combined fuel consumption rated at around 25.3 US mpg.
Legacy
The M278 engine family, including the one used in the E 500 T-modell, has proven to be relatively reliable, although preventative maintenance is crucial. Common issues include occasional oil leaks and potential problems with the fuel injectors. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission is also generally reliable, but requires regular fluid changes. Today, the E 500 T-modell represents a desirable and relatively rare find in the used car market. Its combination of performance, luxury, and practicality makes it an appealing option for enthusiasts seeking a unique and capable wagon.
