Market Segment:
High-performance luxury sedan, a 'sleeper' car blending executive comfort with potent performance.
Key Competitors:
BMW M5 (E34), Audi V8 Quattro, Cadillac STS (Northstar).
Unique Selling Proposition:
Subtle styling, exceptional build quality, powerful V8 engine, sophisticated chassis tuning developed by Porsche.
Target Audience:
Discerning automotive enthusiasts seeking understated performance and Mercedes-Benz reliability.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanicals (block, heads, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts), lubrication, cooling, fuel injection (Bosch LH-Jetronic), ignition, exhaust, emissions control.
Transmission Systems:
4-speed automatic transmission (722.360/722.361), torque converter, shift linkage, transmission control.
Drivetrain Systems:
Front axle, rear axle, differential, driveshafts, CV joints, limited-slip differential (optional/standard on some markets).
Suspension Systems:
Front suspension (independent, McPherson struts, control arms), rear suspension (multi-link independent), shock absorbers, springs, sway bars.
Brake Systems:
Front disc brakes (ventilated), rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake hydraulics, parking brake.
Steering Systems:
Power assisted steering, steering box, steering column, tie rods.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, ignition system components, fuses, relays, control modules (ECU, ABS control).
Climate Control Systems:
Air conditioning system (compressor, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant), heating system, blower motor, climate control unit.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, seats, interior trim, dashboard, sunroof operation.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (where applicable), testing procedures for various systems.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, overhaul, and installation for all major systems.
Rebuild Procedures:
Engine and transmission rebuilding procedures, including torque specifications, clearances, and assembly sequences.
Special Tool Requirements:
Identification of necessary specialized tools for specific repair and diagnostic procedures.
Depth Of Information:
Extremely detailed, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical diagnostics.
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards:
Compliant with US FMVSS for its era. No specific NCAP ratings available for this model's production period.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (Bosch)
Traction Control:
Optional or standard on some export markets (ASR - Acceleration Slip Regulation).
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard from 1992 onwards, passenger airbag optional/standard on late models.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners (front), standard seatbelts (rear).
Chassis Construction:
High-strength steel unibody construction with crumple zones.
Audio System:
Original Becker AM/FM cassette stereo system with optional CD changer. Often features premium speaker systems.
Climate Control Type:
Automatic climate control with a sophisticated HVAC system and often includes a cabin air filter.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Power Seats:
Standard power-adjustable front seats with memory function.
Power Windows Locks:
Standard power windows and door locks.
Sunroof:
Standard power glass sunroof.
Original Connectivity:
Limited to analog systems like an optional car phone. No modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity from the factory.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 15,000 km (9,375 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil.
Transmission Service Interval:
Every 60,000 km (37,500 miles) or 3 years, filter and fluid replacement.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 3-4 years or 60,000 km (37,500 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 100,000 km (62,500 miles) for platinum-tipped plugs.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SJ/SL or ACEA A3/B4; viscosity SAE 0W-40, 5W-40, 5W-50 (check manual for specific temperature recommendations).
Engine Oil Capacity Example:
8.0 Liters (with filter)
Coolant Specification:
MB Spec 325.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant, silicate-free).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4
Wiring Harness Degradation:
The insulation on the original wiring harnesses can become brittle and crack over time, leading to electrical gremlins. This is a common issue on many Mercedes-Benz models of this era.
Head Gasket Leaks:
While the M119 is robust, head gasket leaks can occur, especially if the engine has been overheated or poorly maintained.
Automatic Transmission Slippage:
The 722.3 transmission is generally reliable, but wear can lead to slippage if fluid changes are neglected or if the transmission is abused.
Catalytic Converter Failure:
Original catalytic converters can become clogged or fail due to age and mileage.
Interior Wood Trim Cracking:
The wood veneer trim pieces can sometimes crack or delaminate due to age and exposure to sunlight.
Mercedes Benz Philosophy:
Engineering excellence, durability, safety, and understated luxury.
W124 Era:
The W124 chassis (1984-1995) is renowned for its robust construction and exceptional build quality, often considered the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz engineering.
500E Development:
Conceived as a 'Q-ship' or 'sleeper' sedan, the 500 E was developed in collaboration with Porsche, which assembled the cars and contributed to chassis tuning.
Production Years:
1990-1994
Production Location:
Porsche's plant in Stuttgart, Germany.
Production Numbers:
Approximately 10,479 units worldwide.