Description
From 1991 to 1994, Mercedes-Benz sold a high-performance version of the W124, the Mercedes-Benz 500 E (W124.036). The 500 E was created in close cooperation with Porsche. With its engineering department being fully occupied with the development of the new S-Class, Mercedes-Benz commissioned Porsche in 1989 to redesign the W124 chassis to shoehorn the 5.0L V8 used in the SL into it, along with the necessary changes on the suspension system and drive train. When the car was ready, it was found that its widened fenders didn’t fit through the W124 assembly line in Sindelfingen in three places. Hence Porsche was also commissioned to assemble the car.
The 500 E had a naturally aspirated 5-Litre V8 engine derived from the 500 SL roadster. Sports car braking performance also came from SL components: front SL 500 300mm disks with 4-piston callipers came installed on the 1992 and early 1993 cars. The later 1993, and all 1994 cars came with the upgraded 320mm set taken from the 600 SL. Rear brakes on all years were 278mm brakes from the 500 SL. The 500 E was only supplied with four seats in left hand drive, with the four leather seats supplied by Recaro.
Called the ‘Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing’ by the press, performance tests of the day yielded impressive results: 0–62 mph times of 5.5 to 6.0 seconds. The top speed was redline limited at 6,000rpm to 160mph.
This rare UK delivered facelift model is presented in blue black paintwork with black leather interior. There is a full service history in the file and has formed part of a private collection for several years. Described to be in excellent condition throughout and supplied with a UK V5C and current MOT, this autobahn powerhouse is a excellent proposition.
