🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

E-Class

Model Variants:

E320, E430, E55 AMG

Model Years:

1997, 1998

Chassis Code:

W210

E Class Generation:

Fifth Generation (W210)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size luxury sedan, representing a significant portion of Mercedes-Benz's sales in the late 1990s.

Prestige:

Known for its comfortable ride, robust build quality, and advanced features for its time, appealing to discerning buyers.

Competitors:

Competed directly with vehicles like the BMW 5 Series (E39), Audi A6 (C5), Lexus GS, and Volvo S80.

Design Philosophy:

The W210 E-Class introduced a distinctive dual-headlight design and a more rounded, aerodynamic profile compared to its predecessor (W124).

Comfort Ride:

Emphasized a sophisticated and compliant ride quality, a hallmark of the E-Class lineage.

Safety Engineering:

Incorporated advanced safety systems like multi-stage airbags and enhanced structural integrity.

📋 Manual Details

Vehicle Coverage:

All 1997-1998 Mercedes-Benz E320, E430, and E55 AMG models (W210 chassis).

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 300-500 pages (typical for this era's comprehensive owner's manuals).

Type:

Owner's / Operator's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed booklet

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Operation:

Detailed explanations of engine functions, starting, stopping, and break-in procedures.

Transmission Operation:

Information on automatic transmission operation, gear selection (P, R, N, D, 2, 1/E/S modes), and parking.

Braking System:

Operation of the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), parking brake, and general braking advice.

Electrical System:

Explanation of dashboard indicators, warning lamps, exterior and interior lighting, and basic electrical functions.

Climate Control:

Operation of the automatic climate control (THERMATIC or THERMOTRONIC), air conditioning, heating, and ventilation.

Infotainment Audio:

Details on the factory-installed audio system, radio operation, CD player (if equipped), and speaker controls.

Comfort Convenience:

Operation of power windows, power seats (with memory functions), mirrors, sunroof, and central locking.

Safety Features:

Explanation of airbags (front, side if equipped), seat belts, child seat installation (ISOFIX compatibility), and traction control (ASR/ETS).

Instrument Panel:

Detailed guide to all gauges, indicators, warning lights, and controls on the dashboard.

Exterior Features:

Operation of headlamps (automatic on/off), wipers, washers, and exterior mirrors.

Interior Features:

Operation of interior lighting, sun visors, storage compartments, and vanity mirrors.

Tire Wheel Info:

Recommended tire pressures, wheel bolt tightening specifications, and tire changing procedures.

Fuel System:

Fuel recommendations, fuel tank capacity, and fuel filler door operation.

Exhaust System:

Basic information on exhaust system care (though detailed repair is not covered).

Cooling System:

Information on coolant levels and general system operation.

Lubrication System:

Oil level checks and general lubrication advice.

Battery Charging:

Battery maintenance and jump-starting procedures.

Routine Maintenance:

Guidance on checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid), tire pressure checks.

Driving Techniques:

Tips for efficient driving, proper use of transmission modes, and understanding vehicle behavior.

Emergency Procedures:

Instructions for dealing with flat tires, engine overheating, and electrical failures.

Cleaning Care:

Recommendations for interior and exterior cleaning and care.

Towing Transport:

Information on towing the vehicle and proper transportation methods.

Troubleshooting Basic:

Guidance on interpreting dashboard warning lights and taking appropriate action.

Depth:

Owner-level operation, basic maintenance checks, and safety information. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or repair instructions typical of a service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Quality:

N/A (Printed Format)

Print Quality:

Typically high-quality OEM printing with clear diagrams and legible text.

Binding:

Stapled or perfect bound booklet

Paper Type:

Durable, glossy paper stock

⚙️ Engine Specifications

E320 Engine:

3.2L M112 E32 V6

E320 Power:

215 hp @ 5,500 rpm

E320 Torque:

229 lb-ft @ 3,750 rpm

E430 Engine:

4.3L M113 E43 V8

E430 Power:

275 hp @ 5,750 rpm

E430 Torque:

295 lb-ft @ 3,250 rpm

E55 Amg Engine:

5.4L M113 E55 AMG V8 (SOHC)

E55 Amg Power:

349 hp @ 5,500 rpm

E55 Amg Torque:

391 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated (V6 and V8 variants); AMG variant is a high-performance version.

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with multi-point injection.

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher).

🔧 Transmission

E320 E430 Transmission:

5-speed automatic (722.6 '5G-TRONIC')

E55 Amg Transmission:

5-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT automatic (722.6 variant with performance tuning)

Availability:

No manual transmission offered for these specific models/years in North America.

Modes:

Selectable modes such as 'E' (Economy) and 'S' (Standard/Sport) for altered shift points and performance characteristics.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 188.2 - 188.6 inches (4780 - 4790 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.2 inches (1783 mm)

Height:

Approx. 56.7 inches (1440 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 111.5 inches (2830 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3500 - 3850 lbs (1588 - 1746 kg), varying by model and options.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Generally rated well by IIHS and NHTSA for its era, though specific ratings may vary by test year. Known for structural integrity.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Traction Control:

ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation) or ETS (Electronic Traction System) on some models.

Airbags:

Front airbags, side airbags (optional/standard depending on trim and year).

Seat Belts:

Pretensioning seatbelts with force limiters.

Child Seat Anchors:

ISOFIX (or similar Mercedes-Benz standard) for child seat installation.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory Audiophile sound system with multiple speakers, often with AM/FM radio, cassette player, and optional CD changer.

Navigation:

Optional COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation Device) navigation system available on some models.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control with speed limiter function.

Rain Sensing Wipers:

Optional rain-sensing wiper system available on higher trims.

Phone Integration:

Optional factory-installed tele-aid or cellular phone preparation kits.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil specification used, often indicated by the 'Service A' or 'Service B' reminder system.

Major Service Interval:

Major services (e.g., transmission fluid change, spark plugs, coolant flush) are generally recommended at intervals of 30,000 to 60,000 miles, detailed within the service booklet (often a separate document).

Engine Oil:

API SJ or higher, SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic oil recommended. Always consult the manual for specific MB-Approval numbers.

Transmission Fluid:

MB Specification 236.10 (e.g., Pentosin ATF 1, Mobil ATF 134) for the 722.6 transmission.

Coolant:

Mercedes-Benz approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., ZEREX G-05, Pentofrost SF) mixed with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 Plus (MB Specification 331.0).

Common Wear Items:

Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor, Idle Air Control (IAC) valve, cooling fan clutch, oil cooler seals, vacuum lines, and various suspension bushings can be wear items.

Electrical Gremlins:

While robust, some minor electrical issues (e.g., CAN bus communication issues, sensor failures) can occur with age. The Owner's Manual helps diagnose basic dash warnings.

Amg Specific:

E55 AMG specific maintenance might involve more frequent brake and tire wear due to performance driving, and specific AMG service requirements.

📚 Vehicle History

Mercedes Benz Legacy:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, safety, and luxury since its inception.

W210 Introduction:

The W210 generation of the E-Class was introduced in 1995 (as a 1996 model) and marked a significant departure in styling from the previous W124.

Facelift Impact:

The 1997-1998 models represent the early phase of the W210 before its mid-cycle facelift in 1999.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Germany (Sindelfingen and Rastatt) and also in other global facilities under license.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press:

The W210 E-Class consistently received praise from automotive journalists for its ride comfort, build quality, and safety innovations, contributing to its strong market presence.

Reliability Perception:

While modern Mercedes-Benz vehicles have different reliability profiles, the W210 was generally perceived as a durable and well-engineered vehicle, though complex systems could require specialized maintenance.