The Mercedes-Benz E 500 4MATIC, produced from 2006 to 2009 as part of the W211 facelift generation, represented the performance pinnacle of the E-Class sedan range, excluding the AMG models. Positioned as the flagship non-AMG E-Class, it offered a blend of luxury, performance, and all-weather capability through its standard 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. This variant aimed at buyers seeking a powerful and refined executive sedan without the overtly sporty image of the AMG versions. It built upon the substantial updates introduced with the 2006 facelift, which included revised styling, updated technology, and improved interior materials.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class (W211, facelift 2006) |
| Type | E 500 V8 (388 Hp) 4MATIC 5G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 17.8 l/100 km (13.2 US mpg, 15.9 UK mpg, 5.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.2 l/100 km (25.6 US mpg, 30.7 UK mpg, 10.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.3 l/100 km (19.1 US mpg, 23 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 293 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) – Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.7 kg/Hp, 215 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.4 kg/Nm, 293.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 388 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71 Hp/l |
| Torque | 530 Nm @ 2800-4800 rpm (390.91 lb.-ft. @ 2800-4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 273.962 |
| Engine displacement | 5461 cm3 (333.25 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 98 mm (3.86 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.5 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 11.3 l (11.94 US qt | 9.94 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1805 kg (3979.34 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2405 kg (5302.12 lbs.) |
| Max load | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 530 l (18.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load (with brakes) | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (without brakes) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4856 mm (191.18 in.) |
| Width | 1822 mm (71.73 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2063 mm (81.22 in.) |
| Height | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2854 mm (112.36 in.) |
| Front track | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Rear track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Front overhang | 869 mm (34.21 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1133 mm (44.61 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears/gearbox type | 5 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, 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 | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 500 4MATIC was the M273.962 5.4-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine was a significant departure from earlier Mercedes-Benz V8s, featuring all-aluminum construction, three valves per cylinder, and a short-stroke design. The M273 employed a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. Its 530 Nm (390.91 lb-ft) of torque was readily available from 2800 to 4800 rpm, providing strong acceleration in all gears. Paired with the engine was the 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a five-speed unit known for its smooth shifts and adaptive learning capabilities. This transmission was specifically tuned to handle the high torque output of the V8 engine and deliver power efficiently to all four wheels via the 4MATIC system.
Driving Characteristics
The E 500 4MATIC offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to its six-cylinder siblings. The V8 engine provided effortless acceleration, dispatching 0-60 mph in around 5.2 seconds. The 5G-TRONIC transmission, while not as quick-shifting as some modern automatics, offered smooth and refined gear changes. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provided excellent traction in all weather conditions, enhancing stability and confidence. Compared to the E 350, the E 500 offered a more relaxed and refined driving experience, with less need for frequent downshifts. While not as overtly sporty as the AMG models, the E 500 provided ample power for spirited driving and comfortable long-distance cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 500 4MATIC came standard with a comprehensive list of features, befitting its flagship status. These included leather upholstery, wood trim, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and power-adjustable front seats with memory function. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, upgraded sound system, and various driver assistance features such as Distronic adaptive cruise control and Parktronic parking assist. Interior color schemes were typically conservative, with shades of black, beige, and gray being the most common.
Chassis & Braking
The E 500 4MATIC featured a sophisticated suspension system designed to provide both comfort and handling. The front suspension utilized a double wishbone design with air suspension, while the rear suspension employed an independent multi-link setup, also with air suspension. This air suspension system allowed for adjustable ride height and damping, providing a comfortable ride even on rough roads. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, coupled with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) for enhanced safety. The E 500 typically featured larger brake rotors and calipers compared to the lower-trim models.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 500 4MATIC was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, refined ride, and all-weather capability. However, its fuel economy was often criticized, as the large V8 engine consumed a significant amount of fuel. Compared to the E 350, the E 500 offered a substantial performance upgrade but came at a higher price. The E 500 also provided a more luxurious and refined experience than the E 320 CDI diesel, although the diesel offered superior fuel economy. The E 500 4MATIC competed with other luxury sedans such as the BMW 550i and the Audi A6 4.2 quattro.
Legacy
The M273 engine, while generally reliable, can be prone to certain issues, such as oil leaks and timing chain wear, particularly if maintenance has been neglected. The 5G-TRONIC transmission is also known to be relatively durable, but regular fluid changes are essential for long-term reliability. Today, the W211 E 500 4MATIC represents a compelling value proposition in the used car market, offering a significant amount of performance and luxury for its price. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with a high-performance luxury vehicle of this age. The E 500 4MATIC remains a desirable choice for enthusiasts seeking a comfortable, capable, and powerful executive sedan.
