Original Intent:
A 'sleeper' performance sedan developed in collaboration with Porsche, blending luxury and potent V8 power.
Competitors:
BMW M5 (E34), Audi S4 (B3/B4), Cadillac STS
Performance Focus:
Hand-built AMG-tuned 5.0L V8 engine, refined suspension, understated appearance.
Exclusivity:
Limited production numbers, considered a modern classic.
Target User:
Essential for owners and mechanics maintaining or restoring this rare performance model.
Engine:
M119 5.0L V8 Engine, Engine Mechanical, Engine Electrical, Fuel System (Bosch LH-Jetronic), Ignition System (Helsa), Cooling System, Lubrication System
Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (722.3xx Series), Transmission Control Unit, Hydraulic System
Drivetrain:
Rear Wheel Drive, Differential, Axles, Driveshafts
Suspension:
Independent Front and Rear Suspension, Shock Absorbers, Springs, Bushings, Anti-roll Bars
Steering:
Hydraulic Power Steering System, Steering Gearbox, Steering Column
Brakes:
Front and Rear Disc Brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Brake Calipers, Master Cylinder, Brake Lines, Parking Brake
Electrical:
12V Electrical System, Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Fuse Boxes, Wiring Diagrams, Lighting System, Power Windows, Power Seats, Central Locking
Climate Control:
Automatic Climate Control (ECC), Air Conditioning System, Heater Core, Blower Motor, Controls
Body:
Body and Chassis Construction, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Fenders, Glass, Exterior Trim
Interior:
Interior Trim Panels, Seats, Dashboard, Instrumentation, Audio System, Airbags (SRS)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Change, Filter Replacement, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection/Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Common Faults and Solutions, Symptom-based Diagnostics
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Repair, Body Panel Repair
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) interpretation (where applicable for the era), ECU Fault Code Retrieval, Component Testing
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Tolerances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Schematics
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and chassis repair.
Audience:
Professional Technicians and Advanced DIY Enthusiasts
Engine Type:
V8, SOHC, 4 Valves per Cylinder (32 Valves Total)
Displacement:
4973 cc (5.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
96.5 mm x 85.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower:
322 hp (237 kW) @ 5700 rpm (European Spec), 315 hp (232 kW) @ 5700 rpm (US Spec)
Torque:
354 lb-ft (480 Nm) @ 3900 rpm
Injection Type:
Bosch LH-Jetronic Electronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher)
Type:
Helsa Electronic Ignition System with Knock Control
Oil Capacity:
8.0 Liters (8.5 US Quarts) with filter change
Coolant Capacity:
10.5 Liters (11.1 US Quarts)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, using synthetic oil.
Major Service Points:
Refer to manual for 30k, 60k, 90k mile service items (e.g., transmission fluid/filter, coolant, brake fluid, spark plugs).
Engine Oil:
SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 Synthetic Engine Oil meeting MB 229.1 or 229.3 specifications.
Coolant:
Mercedes-Benz approved G48 (Blue) or equivalent OAT coolant concentrate, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 specification
Wiring Harness:
Cracked insulation on biodegradable wiring harnesses is a common issue on W124 models.
Cooling System:
Water pump failure, radiator leaks, brittle plastic components in the cooling system.
Suspension Components:
Wear in control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends.
Climate Control:
Leaking evaporator core, failing blower motor resistor, control unit issues.
Mercedes Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz reputation for engineering excellence, durability, and luxury.
W124 Lineage:
The W124 platform is renowned for its over-engineered build quality and refinement.
500E Development:
Developed with Porsche for enhanced performance, wider track, and distinct styling cues (e.g., flared fenders).
Production Years:
1990-1994 (for W124 chassis 500E/E500)
Manufacturing Location:
Sindelfingen, Germany (assembled by Porsche during development phase)
Production Volume:
Approximately 10,479 units worldwide (including E500 Ltd.)
