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Buying or Selling a Mercedes 500 E? What You Need to Know

The Mercedes-Benz 500 E: an iconic 90’s sedan that blends Porsche-like high performance with Mercedes refined luxury.

Understated elegance with a classic Mercedes-Benz silhouette, the 500 E, wasn’t your typical luxury 4-door. Called a ‘wolf in sheep’s clothing’ by the auto media, it beats with the heart of a sports car beneath its refined exterior. The 500 E (or E 500 for later model years) is a story of unexpected collaborations, audacious engineering, and a legacy that continues to captivate car enthusiasts today.

In the next part of this article, we’ll delve deeper into the car and tips for buyers and sellers.

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WE BUY 500 E / E 500

THE MERCEDES-BENZ 500 E / E 500 was born from a seemingly unlikely partnership. With much of its engineering team allocated to the new S-Class, Mercedes sought Porsche’s expertise to create a high-performance variant of their W124 chassis to compete against the likes of the BMW M5. That task? Shoe-horning the powerful 5.0L V8 from the SL roadster into the unassuming E-Class.

The result? A masterpiece of automotive engineering. Porsche subtly widened the body and strengthened the suspension to handle all that horsepower. This muscle was barely evident – quad exhaust pipes hinted at the beast within.

But the 500 E defies broad definition. The Porsche collaboration ensured power was delivered with finesse. The suspension provided exceptional handling without sacrificing signature Mercedes-Benz ride quality. The interior remained true to the brand ethos – premium materials and meticulous craftsmanship.

The 500 E wasn’t just a car; it was a statement. And this blend of power & luxury has cemented the 500 E’s place in automotive history. Today, it’s a sought-after ‘new’ classic, and a testament to the magic that can happen when audacious ideas and unexpected partnerships collide.

Mercedes-Benz 500 E Models 1991-1995

The differences between the 500 E and E 500 are relatively minor, with the main distinction being the name change and slight power adjustment for the latter years. All models came with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Options included Recaro sport seats, a rear spoiler, and a sunroof.

From 1990-1993:

Officially named “500 E”
5.0L V8 engine producing 322 hp
Know for wider fenders, lower stance, and quad pipes for a more pronounced sporty look

From 1994-1995:

Renamed “E 500” as part of a broader E-Class facelift
Slightly decreased power to 315 hp in some markets (including the US) due to stricter emissions regulations
Minor interior and exterior revisions for a refreshed look

Buying a Mercedes-Benz 500 E / E 500?

Some enthusiasts consider the 1990-1993 models to be slightly more desirable due to their original “500 E” designation and potentially higher power output in some markets. Beyond that, here’s some common issues:

Head Gasket: Early models had issues with head gasket failures, so checking service history is crucial if you’re considering buying one.

Ignition system: Faulty ignition coils, distributors, and sensors can cause starting problems and rough running.

Vacuum leaks: Cracked or loose vacuum lines can affect engine performance and idle stability.

Shifting problems: Worn solenoids, valve body issues, or low fluid levels can lead to harsh or slipping gears.
Leaking torque converter: This can cause transmission whine and loss of power.
Suspension and Steering:

Bushings and ball joints: These contribute to clunking noises, imprecise handling, and uneven tire wear.

Electrical: Faulty wiring, switches, and modules can cause various electrical malfunctions, like inoperative windows, lights, or instrumentation.

Rust / corrosion: This can affect various components, especially underbody panels and suspension parts, due to age and exposure to the elements.

Interior wear and tear: Leather seats, wood trim, and other interior components may show signs of cracking, fading, or wear depending on usage and maintenance.

Additional notes:

Remember, these are just common issues, and not all 500 Es or Mercedes from that era will experience them. Regular maintenance and addressing problems promptly can help extend the lifespan of these cars and prevent bigger issues down the line.

Seller Questions?

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Make your dream of owning a Mercedes-Benz 500 E a reality with Beverly Hills Car Club

As one of the nation’s foremost classic car dealers, we not only possess an extensive inventory of meticulously maintained 500 Es, but also the expertise and passion to guide you through every step of the journey. Our team of knowledgeable enthusiasts meticulously sources and inspects each vehicle, ensuring its authenticity, provenance, and mechanical soundness. Whether you seek a pristine, low-mileage example or a project car with potential, we have the perfect 500 E waiting for you! Beyond the car itself, we offer:

Unparalleled transparency: Detailed inspection reports, service history documentation, and upfront pricing build trust and eliminate surprises.
Expertise you can trust: Our knowledgeable team is ready to answer your questions, address concerns, and share their passion for the 500 E.
Financing and logistics assistance: We simplify the buying process with tailored financing options and seamless nationwide transportation arrangements.

Owning a Mercedes-Benz 500 E is more than just acquiring a car; it’s about cherishing a timeless icon. Don’t settle for anything less than the best. Visit Beverly Hills Car Club today and let us help you find your perfect “wolf in sheep’s clothing.”

“We specialize in older European luxury and sports cars as well as select American makes and models. We’ve seen them all and we have the experience and knowledge to immediately fit the best price and the easiest delivery (or pick-up) service.” – Alex Manos (owner)