The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet (A207) E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, produced from April 2011 to March 2013, represented a compelling blend of luxury, efficiency, and open-air motoring within the broader E-Class Cabrio range. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it catered to buyers seeking a refined driving experience with lower running costs than the more powerful gasoline variants. This model combined a 2.1-liter turbocharged diesel engine with the sophisticated 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, offering a balance between performance and fuel economy. It was a key part of the A207 generation, which aimed to modernize the E-Class Cabriolet while maintaining its traditional values of comfort and build quality.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-Class |
| Generation | E-Class Cabrio (A207) |
| Type (Engine) | E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY (170 Hp) 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | April, 2011 |
| End of production | March, 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.6-6.7 l/100 km (35.6 – 35.1 US mpg, 42.8 – 42.2 UK mpg, 15.2 – 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5-4.6 l/100 km (52.3 – 51.1 US mpg, 62.8 – 61.4 UK mpg, 22.2 – 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.3-5.4 l/100 km (44.4 – 43.6 US mpg, 53.3 – 52.3 UK mpg, 18.9 – 18.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 138-142 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp, 98.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 231.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 3000-4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 79.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1400-2800 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1400-2800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 651.911 |
| Engine displacement | 2143 cm3 (130.77 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 99 mm (3.9 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1730 kg (3814 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2275 kg (5015.52 lbs.) |
| Max load | 545 kg (1201.52 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) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| 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 track | 1544 mm (60.79 in.) |
| Front overhang | 855 mm (33.66 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1083 mm (42.64 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 295 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 300 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size (Front) | 235/45 R17; 235/40 R18; 235/35 R19 |
| Tires size (Rear) | 235/45 R17; 255/40 R17; 255/35 R18; 255/30 R19 |
| Wheel rims size (Front) | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18; 8J x 19; 8.5J x 19 |
| Wheel rims size (Rear) | 7.5J x 17; 8.5J x 17; 8.5J x 18; 8.5J x 19 |
INTRODUCTION
The E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Cabriolet, launched in 2011, was a significant addition to the A207 E-Class Cabriolet lineup. Built on the W207 platform, it offered a luxurious open-top experience with a focus on fuel efficiency thanks to its advanced diesel technology. The “BlueEFFICIENCY” designation signified Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to reducing emissions and improving fuel economy through various engineering enhancements. This variant aimed to attract customers who desired the prestige of an E-Class Cabriolet but were mindful of running costs, making it a popular choice in European markets where diesel engines were prevalent.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY lay the OM651.911 2.1-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine was a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz’s diesel offerings, known for its robust construction and efficiency. It featured a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine was equipped with a variable geometry turbocharger and an intercooler, enhancing both power and torque across a broad rev range. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, a seven-speed unit, was specifically tuned to complement the engine’s characteristics. This transmission offered smooth and responsive gear changes, contributing to both driving comfort and fuel efficiency. The transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for both acceleration and highway cruising, providing a balance between performance and economy.
Driving Characteristics
The E 220 CDI Cabriolet provided a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the 170 horsepower and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque provided adequate performance for everyday driving and relaxed cruising. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 8.3 seconds, and the car had a top speed of 230 km/h (143 mph). The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission contributed to smooth gear changes, minimizing disruptions during acceleration. Compared to the more powerful E 350 Cabriolet, the E 220 CDI offered a more relaxed driving experience, prioritizing fuel economy and comfort over outright performance. The lower weight over the front axle, due to the smaller engine, also contributed to slightly more agile handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Cabriolet came standard with a comprehensive array of features, befitting its position in the E-Class range. Standard equipment included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, and a high-quality audio system. Optional extras included features such as the AIRCAP system (reducing turbulence in the cabin at higher speeds), the AIRSCARF system (neck-level heating for open-top driving), and various driver assistance systems like parking guidance and lane keeping assist. Interior trim options allowed for personalization, with a range of wood and aluminum finishes available. The standard dashboard configuration was typical of the A207 E-Class, featuring a blend of classic Mercedes-Benz design elements and modern technology.
Chassis & Braking
The A207 E-Class Cabriolet utilized a robust chassis designed to provide both comfort and handling. The front suspension featured a multi-link setup with coil springs and a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employed an independent multi-link spring suspension, also with a stabilizer bar. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, ensuring safe and controlled stopping power. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort, providing a smooth ride over various road surfaces. The chassis was reinforced to compensate for the lack of a fixed roof, maintaining structural rigidity.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Cabriolet was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined interior. Compared to the gasoline-powered E 350 Cabriolet, the E 220 CDI offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a more practical choice for drivers covering long distances. However, it lacked the outright performance of the E 350. Against competitors like the BMW 3 Series Convertible and Audi A5 Cabriolet, the E 220 CDI offered a more luxurious and comfortable experience, albeit at a slightly higher price point. Its diesel engine also gave it an advantage in terms of fuel economy compared to many of its gasoline-powered rivals.
Legacy
The OM651 engine, found in the E 220 CDI, has proven to be a remarkably durable and reliable powertrain. With proper maintenance, these engines can accumulate high mileage without major issues. In the used car market, the E 220 CDI Cabriolet remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a stylish and economical open-top car. Its combination of luxury, comfort, and fuel efficiency continues to appeal to a wide range of drivers. While modern emissions regulations may impact the desirability of older diesel vehicles in some regions, the E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY remains a well-regarded and capable grand tourer.
