1991 Mercedes 500 E w124

With the appearance of the 500 E at the Paris Motor Show in October 1990, a new top-of-the-range model in the 124 series was unveiled. Although at first glance similar to its sister models, the newcomer boasted a 326 hp 5.0-litre V8 four-valve engine based on the tried-and-tested 500 SL drive unit. And its performance was simply breathtaking. With four-speed automatic transmission fitted as standard and a top speed limited to 250 km/h, the 500 E managed 0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds. The as-standard ASR acceleration skid control prevented the drive wheels from spinning even at full throttle. To improve emissions performance, the volume of the twin-pipe catalytic converter was increased from 3.9 to 5.8 litres. Secondary air injection and exhaust gas recirculation also helped. The 500 E was the first vehicle to use a new version of the V8 four valve unit, which differed from the version familiar from the SL thanks not just to a different fuel injection system but also due to its modified crankcase. In place of the mechanical-electronically controlled Bosch KE-Jetronic, the electronically controlled Bosch LH-Jetronic with air mass sensor was used for the first time. The changes to the engine block were more significant. It now had the same interior height as its little brother with a 4.2-litre capacity. As well as having a 16.5 mm lower installed height, the new standard-deck engine was also more economical to produce. Bore and stroke were retained unchanged, and the lower crankcase allowed for connecting rods with shorter shafts.

The characteristic features of the 500 E included subtly flared wings, fog lights integrated into the front apron and 16-inch alloy wheels with an eight-hole design and wide 225/55 ZR 16 tyres. The body was 23 mm lower than other models and to compensate for load-induced spring compression the rear axle was fitted with hydropneumatic level control as standard. Production of this exclusive model, which carried a price tag of almost 135,000 deutschmarks when it first appeared, involved close collaboration with Porsche. Bodyshell construction and final assembly were done at Porsche in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen, while the Sindelfingen plant retained responsibility for the paintwork and delivery.

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