The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet (A207) E 550 V8, produced from 2009 to 2011, represented the pinnacle of open-air luxury and performance within the A207 generation. Positioned as the range-topping engine option for the Cabriolet, it offered a significant step up in power and refinement compared to the E350 and E500 models. This variant combined a naturally aspirated 5.5-liter V8 engine with Mercedes-Benz’s 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission, creating a grand touring experience focused on effortless power delivery and sophisticated comfort. The A207 E-Class Cabriolet itself was a key model in Mercedes-Benz’s lineup, appealing to buyers seeking a premium convertible experience with the renowned build quality and engineering of the German marque.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class Cabrio (A207) |
| Type (Engine) | E 550 V8 (382 Hp) 7G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.8 kg/Hp, 208.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm, 288.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 382 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70 Hp/l |
| Torque | 530 Nm @ 2800-4800 rpm (390.91 lb.-ft. @ 2800-4800 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 273 |
| Engine displacement | 5461 cm3 (333.25 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 98 mm (3.86 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.5 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1836 kg (4047.69 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 300 l (10.59 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 390 l (13.77 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal) |
| Length | 4698 mm (184.96 in.) |
| Width | 1786 mm (70.31 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2015 mm (79.33 in.) |
| Height | 1398 mm (55.04 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2760 mm (108.66 in.) |
| Front track | 1538 mm (60.55 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1544 mm (60.79 in.) |
| Front overhang | 855 mm (33.66 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1083 mm (42.64 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.95 m (35.93 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 235/40 R18; 235/35 R19Rear wheel tires: 255/35 R18; 255/30 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 8J x 18; 8J x 19; 8.5J x 19Rear wheel rims: 8.5J x 18; 8.5J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 550 Cabriolet is the M273 engine, a 5.5-liter naturally aspirated V8. This engine, a staple of Mercedes-Benz’s performance lineup during the late 2000s, features a three-valve per cylinder (two intake, one exhaust) design and a relatively high 10.7:1 compression ratio. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, ensuring precise fuel atomization for optimal combustion. The engine’s architecture is a 90-degree V configuration, contributing to a smooth and balanced power delivery. Paired with the M273 is the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, known for its smooth and responsive shifts, features a torque converter lock-up clutch to improve efficiency at cruising speeds. The 7G-TRONIC also offers a manual shift mode, allowing drivers to exert more control over gear selection.
Driving Characteristics
The E 550 Cabriolet delivers a distinctly grand touring experience. The 382 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque provide ample power for effortless acceleration and confident highway cruising. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 5.1 seconds. The 7G-TRONIC transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing smooth and quick gear changes. Compared to the E350 Cabriolet, the E 550 offers a significantly more potent driving experience, with noticeably stronger acceleration and a more relaxed feel at higher speeds. While not as overtly sporty as some competitors, the E 550 prioritizes comfort and refinement, making it an ideal choice for long-distance travel. The rear-wheel drive configuration contributes to balanced handling, although it doesn’t offer the all-weather capability of all-wheel drive systems found in some other E-Class models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 550 Cabriolet came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury features. Standard equipment typically included leather upholstery, wood trim, a premium sound system, automatic climate control, and power-adjustable seats with memory function. The A207 also featured Mercedes-Benz’s COMAND infotainment system, offering navigation, audio control, and vehicle settings adjustments. Optional extras included features like the AIRMATIC semi-active suspension, which provided a more comfortable ride, and the Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control system. Exterior options included a variety of wheel designs and paint colors. The E 550 was generally offered with more upscale interior trim options compared to the lower-spec models.
Chassis & Braking
The A207 E-Class Cabriolet utilizes a robust chassis designed to provide a comfortable ride and secure handling. The front suspension features a coil spring, independent multi-link setup with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employs an independent multi-link spring suspension, also with a stabilizer bar. This configuration helps to minimize body roll and provide a controlled driving experience. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The E 550 also includes ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The steering system is a rack and pinion setup with hydraulic power assistance, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 550 Cabriolet was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that its fuel economy was relatively poor compared to some competitors. Compared to the E350 Cabriolet, the E 550 offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. The E 550 also differed from the diesel-powered E350 BlueTEC in terms of fuel type and driving characteristics, appealing to buyers who prioritized performance over fuel efficiency. Reliability reports suggest that the M273 engine is generally robust, but preventative maintenance, particularly regarding the valve cover gaskets and oil cooler lines, is crucial to avoid potential issues.
Legacy
The A207 E 550 Cabriolet remains a desirable used car today, particularly for enthusiasts seeking a luxurious and powerful open-top experience. The M273 engine, while not the most fuel-efficient, is known for its smooth power delivery and relatively good reliability when properly maintained. Parts availability is generally good, although some components specific to the E 550 may be more expensive than those for the lower-spec models. The A207 E-Class Cabriolet, and especially the E 550 variant, represents a high point in Mercedes-Benz’s convertible heritage, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and engineering excellence.
