The Mercedes-Benz E 55 T-modell, part of the S210 series produced between February 1998 and July 1999, represented the high-performance variant of the E-Class wagon. Positioned as the flagship of the S210 range, it combined the practicality of a station wagon with the potent power of Mercedes-AMG’s naturally aspirated V8 engine. This model filled the niche for buyers seeking a luxurious, spacious, and exceptionally quick estate car, offering a compelling alternative to more conventional performance vehicles. It was a relatively short-lived production run, adding to its collectibility today.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class T-modell (S210) |
| Type | AMG E 55 V8 (354 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | February, 1998 |
| End of production | July, 1999 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 18.3 l/100 km (12.9 US mpg, 15.4 UK mpg, 5.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.6 l/100 km (18.7 US mpg, 22.4 UK mpg, 7.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.1 kg/Hp, 197.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.4 kg/Nm, 296.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 354 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 530 Nm @ 3000 rpm (390.91 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 113 E 55 |
| Engine displacement | 5439 cm3 (331.91 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 97 mm (3.82 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11 l (11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1790 kg (3946.27 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2290 kg (5048.59 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 600 l (21.19 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1975 l (69.75 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4816 mm (189.61 in.) |
| Width | 1799 mm (70.83 in.) |
| Height | 1477 mm (58.15 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2833 mm (111.54 in.) |
| Front track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1543 mm (60.75 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Hydro-pneumatic element, Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Front tires | 235/40 R18 |
| Rear tires | 265/35 R18 |
| Front wheel rims | 8J x 18 |
| Rear wheel rims | 9J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 55 T-modell was the M113 E 55 engine, a 5.4-liter naturally aspirated V8. This engine, a cornerstone of Mercedes-AMG’s early 21st-century offerings, featured a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. It utilized a three-valve-per-cylinder (two intake, one exhaust) SOHC valvetrain and a multi-port fuel injection system. The M113 was known for its robust construction and smooth power delivery. The engine produced 354 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 391 lb-ft of torque at 3000 rpm. This power was channeled through a five-speed automatic transmission, specifically designed to handle the engine’s substantial output. The transmission featured a torque converter lockup for improved efficiency at cruising speeds.
Driving Characteristics
The E 55 T-modell offered a unique driving experience. While the wagon body style added weight compared to the E 55 sedan, the powerful V8 ensured brisk acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint was dispatched in around 5.6 seconds, and the electronically limited top speed of 155 mph provided ample performance. The automatic transmission, while not as engaging as a manual, offered smooth and relatively quick shifts. The gear ratios were tuned for a balance of acceleration and highway cruising. Compared to the E 430 wagon (with its smaller V8) or the E 320 (inline-six), the E 55 provided a significantly more potent and refined driving experience. The increased power and torque were readily available, making overtaking effortless. However, the added weight and power did result in higher fuel consumption.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 55 T-modell came generously equipped, reflecting its position as the range-topping variant. Standard features included leather upholstery, wood trim, automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, and a premium sound system. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and upgraded wheels. The interior design mirrored that of the standard E-Class, but with unique AMG badging and detailing. The exterior featured AMG-specific body styling, including a more aggressive front bumper, side skirts, and rear spoiler.
Chassis & Braking
The S210 chassis was modified to accommodate the increased power of the E 55. The suspension featured stiffer springs and dampers, along with a larger diameter stabilizer bar, to reduce body roll and improve handling. The braking system was upgraded with larger ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The rear suspension utilized a hydro-pneumatic system, offering a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 55 T-modell was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its combination of performance, luxury, and practicality. However, some reviewers noted the relatively high fuel consumption and the lack of a manual transmission option. Compared to other performance wagons of the time, such as the BMW M5 Touring (not officially sold in the US during this generation), the E 55 offered a more refined and comfortable driving experience, albeit with slightly less outright performance. Its reliability was generally good, benefiting from Mercedes-Benz’s reputation for build quality.
Legacy
The E 55 T-modell remains a desirable vehicle among enthusiasts today. Its relatively short production run and potent powertrain have made it a collectible item. The M113 engine is known for its durability, and well-maintained examples can provide many years of reliable service. However, as with any older performance car, regular maintenance is essential. Parts availability is generally good, but some AMG-specific components can be expensive. The E 55 T-modell represents a unique blend of performance, luxury, and practicality, making it a standout model in the E-Class lineage.
