Segment:
Executive Mid-size Sedan/Wagon
Positioning:
Premium luxury vehicle offering comfort, advanced technology, and strong performance
Key Competitors:
BMW 5 Series (E39), Audi A6 (C5), Lexus GS (JZS160), Cadillac DeVille
Design Philosophy:
Elegance, aerodynamic efficiency, and refined Mercedes-Benz styling
Technology Highlights:
Advanced electronics, sophisticated climate control, early integration of infotainment
Safety Features:
Robust safety cage, multiple airbags, advanced restraint systems
Engine Operation:
Engine overview, startup, shutdown, fuel economy, warning lights
Transmission Operation:
Automatic transmission operation, shifting, modes (e.g., Comfort/Sport)
Brakes:
Brake system operation, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), traction control (ASR)
Steering:
Power steering system overview
Suspension:
Basic operation of suspension components
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system basics, fuses, lighting controls, power accessories
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control (THERMATIC/THERMOTRONIC) operation, air conditioning, heating
Infotainment Audio:
Radio/audio system operation, CD changer (if equipped), antenna
Instrument Cluster:
Gauges, indicators, warning lamps, driver information system
Comfort Convenience:
Power windows, locks, mirrors, seats, sunroof, cruise control
Safety Systems:
Airbags (SRS), seatbelt operation, child seat installation (ISOFIX/LATCH if applicable)
Routine Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, bulb replacement (basic)
Emergency Procedures:
Jump starting, tire changing, emergency braking
Troubleshooting:
Explanation of dashboard warning lights and indicators
Operation Of Features:
Detailed instructions for all vehicle functions and features
Depth:
Owner-level operation and basic maintenance, not diagnostic or repair focused
E320 Engine:
3.2L M112 E32 V6 (SOHC, 18 valves)
E320 Horsepower:
221 hp @ 5,750 rpm
E320 Torque:
232 lb-ft @ 3,000-4,800 rpm
E430 Engine:
4.3L M113 E43 V8 (SOHC, 24 valves)
E430 Horsepower:
275 hp @ 5,750 rpm
E430 Torque:
295 lb-ft @ 3,250-4,500 rpm
E55 Amg Engine:
5.4L M113 E55 V8 (SOHC, 24 valves) AMG Tuned
E55 Amg Horsepower:
349 hp @ 5,500 rpm
E55 Amg Torque:
391 lb-ft @ 3,000-4,500 rpm
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)
Injection:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic (specific variant depends on engine)
Catalytic Converter:
Two three-way catalytic converters
E320 Transmission:
5-speed automatic (722.6 '5G-TRONIC')
E430 Transmission:
5-speed automatic (722.6 '5G-TRONIC')
E55 Amg Transmission:
5-speed AMG SpeedShift automatic (reinforced 722.6 '5G-TRONIC')
Drivetrain Options:
Rear-wheel drive (RWD). 4MATIC all-wheel drive available on E320 and E430.
Transmission Modes:
Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB-Approval 236.10 (ATF) or equivalent
Sedan Length:
Approx. 193.4 inches (4913 mm)
Sedan Width:
Approx. 70.2 inches (1783 mm)
Sedan Height:
Approx. 56.7 inches (1440 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 111.5 inches (2832 mm)
Sedan Trunk Volume:
Approx. 15.8 cubic feet (447 liters)
Curb Weight E320:
Approx. 3,700 - 3,900 lbs (1680 - 1770 kg)
Curb Weight E430:
Approx. 3,850 - 4,050 lbs (1750 - 1835 kg)
Curb Weight E55 Amg:
Approx. 4,000 - 4,200 lbs (1815 - 1905 kg)
Gvw Approx:
Approx. 4,950 - 5,150 lbs (2245 - 2335 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
4-Star (Front Passenger), 5-Star (Rear Passenger)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Acceleration Slip Regulation (ASR)
Esp:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) introduced later in the W210 generation, check specific vehicle for availability, likely not standard on all 2000 models.
Airbags:
Driver, front passenger, side airbags (front), window curtain airbags (optional/later models)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners and belt force limiters
Audio System:
Bose premium audio system available on higher trims. Mercedes-Benz Audio 10/20/30 with cassette and CD player.
Navigation:
Optional COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with CD-ROM based navigation maps.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Parking Assistance:
Optional front and rear Parktronic parking sensors
Phone Integration:
Optional integrated cellular phone system (often analog or early digital) with a cradle.
Headlights:
Halogen projector-beam headlights. Xenon HID headlights available as an option.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil. Refer to flexible service indicator (ASSYST).
Transmission Service Interval:
Recommended every 40,000-60,000 miles for fluid and filter change. Consult dealer or service manual for exact intervals.
Coolant Service:
Initial change at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles or 2 years. Use MB-approved coolant.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SJ or higher, ACEA A3/B3 or A3/B4, MB-Approval 229.3 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, Castrol Syntec 0W-30).
Engine Oil Capacity:
E320: ~7.4 quarts (7.0 L), E430/E55: ~8.5 quarts (8.0 L) - check dipstick
Coolant Type:
MB-Approval 325.0 (Blue or Green concentrate, mix 50/50 with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4, MB-Approval 331.0
Power Steering Fluid:
MB-Approval 343.0 (Hydraulic Oil)
Common Problems E320 E430:
Mass airflow sensor (MAF) issues, ignition coil failures (especially on V6), electronic throttle body issues, vacuum leaks, sagging headliner, climate control blower motor resistor failure, window regulator failure, rust on fenders/door bottoms (especially in certain climates).
Common Problems E55 Amg:
Similar to other W210s but may include more frequent wear on AMG-specific components, potential issues with AMG tuned transmission, and more expensive brake/suspension parts. Camshaft position sensors.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter HU715/1x or Mahle OX107/1D (verify for specific engine)
Cabin Air Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter CU2724 or equivalent (often two filters)
E320 Spark Plugs:
NGK PFR5G-11 (or equivalent, 12 required)
E430 E55 Spark Plugs:
NGK PFR5G-11 (or equivalent, 16 required for E430/E55)
Heritage Summary:
Mercedes-Benz, a pioneer in automotive engineering, known for luxury, durability, and safety innovations since the late 19th century.
W210 Generation:
The W210 E-Class, produced from 1995 to 2002, represented a significant styling departure with its quad headlamps and a more rounded design, moving away from the W124's boxy aesthetic.
2000 Model Year Updates:
The 2000 model year saw minor updates, often including refinements to electronics, audio systems, and minor exterior/interior trim adjustments. The V8 engines received updates for emissions compliance.
Production Years:
1995-2002 (W210)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (primarily Sindelfingen, Bremen)
General Reputation:
The E-Class consistently receives accolades for safety, comfort, and build quality from automotive publications and consumer satisfaction surveys.
Specific Awards Examples:
Often cited for its blend of performance and luxury. May have received 'Best Luxury Car' or similar awards from publications like MotorTrend, Car and Driver, or JD Power during its production run.