Vehicle Class:
Luxury Grand Tourer / Roadster
Competitors:
BMW 8 Series, Jaguar XJS, Porsche 928
Highlight:
Sophisticated engineering, powerful V8 engine, convertible hardtop, luxury appointments
Buyer Profile:
Affluent individuals seeking performance, luxury, and open-top driving
Engine:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, exhaust, lubrication
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (4-speed 4G-TRONIC)
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, springs, control arms
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, linkage
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, battery, alternator, starter, ECUs, comfort systems
Body:
Body construction, interior trim, exterior panels, convertible top mechanism
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Repair:
Component replacement, engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, common issue resolution
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-I), specific sensor testing
Depth:
Factory-level detail, including torque specifications, component tolerances, diagnostic flowcharts
Engine Type:
5.0L V8 SOHC (32-valve)
Displacement:
4973 cc (303.5 cu in)
Horsepower:
322 hp @ 5500 rpm (SAE Net)
Torque:
354 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm (SAE Net)
Induction:
Bosch KE-Jetronic Fuel Injection with Electronic Control
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane)
Oil Capacity:
8.0 Liters (8.5 US Quarts) with filter change
Recommended Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic recommended for optimal performance
Crash Test Info:
NHTSA and IIHS data from the era; R129 chassis known for robust structure.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Acceleration Skid Control (ASR) on some models
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard
Roll Over Protection:
Automatic rollover protection system (pop-up hoops)
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioning seatbelts
Audio System:
Premium sound system (e.g., Becker Grand Prix or similar), often with CD changer preparation.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control with air conditioning
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Seats:
Electrically adjustable front seats with memory function, heated seats
Windows Mirrors:
Power windows, power mirrors, heated rear window
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).
Major Service Interval:
Refer to manual for specific mileage intervals for spark plugs, transmission service, coolant flush (e.g., 30,000-50,000 miles).
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Coolant/Antifreeze - Specification 325.0 (Blue)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (DOT 4 LV)
Wiring Harness:
Biodegradable insulation on wiring harnesses can become brittle and fail; requires replacement or repair.
Convertible Top Hydraulic System:
Leaking hydraulic lines or pump issues; check fluid levels and actuator seals.
Mass Air Flow Sensor:
Can become dirty or fail, leading to rough idle and poor performance.
Idle Control Valve:
Can stick or fail, causing erratic idle.
Door Lock Actuators:
Vacuum operated door locks can develop leaks in lines or actuators.
