The Mercedes-Benz E 50, produced between January 1996 and August 1997, was a high-performance variant of the W210 E-Class sedan. Positioned as the flagship of the range before the introduction of the E 55, the E 50 aimed to deliver a blend of luxury and exhilarating performance, bridging the gap between the more common six-cylinder models and the full-blown AMG offerings. It represented a significant step up in power and refinement for the W210 platform, appealing to buyers seeking a sophisticated yet sporty driving experience. The E 50 was exclusively offered with a V8 engine and an automatic transmission, making it a relatively rare and sought-after model today.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class (W210) |
| Type | AMG E 50 V8 (347 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | January, 1996 |
| End of production | August, 1997 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.5 l/100 km (14.3 US mpg, 17.1 UK mpg, 6.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5 kg/Hp, 198.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.6 kg/Nm, 274.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 347 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 69.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 480 Nm @ 3750 rpm (354.03 lb.-ft. @ 3750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 119 E 50 AMG |
| Engine displacement | 4973 cm3 (303.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96.5 mm (3.8 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1750 kg (3858.09 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2220 kg (4894.26 lbs.) |
| Max load | 470 kg (1036.17 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal, 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 4795 mm (188.78 in.) |
| Width | 1799 mm (70.83 in.) |
| Height | 1411 mm (55.55 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2833 mm (111.54 in.) |
| Front track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1543 mm (60.75 in.) |
| 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 | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| 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 |
| Front wheel tires | 235/40 R18 |
| Rear wheel tires | 265/35 R18 |
| Front wheel rims | 8J x 18 |
| Rear wheel rims | 9J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 50 is the M119 E 50 engine, a 4.97-liter (303.47 cubic inch) naturally aspirated V8. This engine, derived from the larger 5.0-liter M119 used in other Mercedes-Benz models, was specifically tuned by AMG to deliver 347 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 480 Nm (354 lb-ft) of torque at 3750 rpm. The engine features a cast-iron block with aluminum cylinder heads, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and four valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery is handled by a multi-port fuel injection system. The M119 is known for its robust construction and smooth power delivery. The E 50 exclusively utilized a 5-speed automatic transmission, providing a comfortable and refined driving experience. This transmission was specifically calibrated to handle the V8’s power output and provide smooth shifts.
Driving Characteristics
The E 50 offered a noticeably different driving experience compared to the standard W210 E-Class models. The increased power and torque resulted in significantly quicker acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5.9 seconds and a electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). While not as overtly sporty as some contemporary performance sedans, the E 50 provided a confident and effortless cruising experience. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick-shifting by modern standards. Compared to the manual transmission options available on other E-Class models, the E 50 prioritized comfort and ease of use over outright driver engagement. The weight distribution, however, was well-balanced, contributing to stable handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 50 came standard with a generous array of features, reflecting its position as the range-topping model. Standard equipment 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, upgraded audio systems, and various cosmetic enhancements. The interior design was typical of Mercedes-Benz at the time – luxurious and understated, with a focus on comfort and build quality. The E 50’s trim level was largely defined by its engine and transmission, with fewer options for customization compared to other E-Class variants.
Chassis & Braking
The E 50’s chassis was largely shared with other W210 E-Class models, but with some subtle enhancements to accommodate the increased power. The suspension featured wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension with a stabilizer bar. The braking system consisted of ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, coupled with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The E 50’s tires were wider than those fitted to the standard models – 235/40 R18 at the front and 265/35 R18 at the rear – providing increased grip and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 50 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission wasn’t as responsive as a manual gearbox, and that the car lacked the outright sporting character of some of its rivals. Compared to the E 420, the E 50 offered a significant performance boost, but at a higher price point. It also provided a more refined and luxurious alternative to the E 320 and E 280 models. Fuel economy was predictably lower than the six-cylinder variants, averaging around 16.5 l/100 km (14.3 US mpg) in urban driving.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz E 50, while a relatively short-lived model, has gained a following among enthusiasts. The M119 V8 engine is known for its durability and reliability, and the E 50 remains a capable and comfortable grand tourer. Today, well-maintained examples are becoming increasingly collectible. Common issues include age-related wear and tear on suspension components and potential leaks from the engine’s seals. However, with proper maintenance, the E 50 can provide many years of reliable service. Its status as a rare and powerful W210 variant ensures its continued appeal to Mercedes-Benz collectors and enthusiasts alike.
