The Mercedes-Benz E 500 BlueEFFICIENCY Cabriolet (A207) represents the high-performance variant of the A207 E-Class Cabriolet range, produced between August 2011 and March 2013. Positioned as the flagship model, it combined open-air motoring with the power of a naturally aspirated V8 engine and the sophistication of Mercedes-Benz’s 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission. This variant aimed to deliver a luxurious and exhilarating driving experience, appealing to buyers seeking both performance and prestige in a convertible package.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class Cabrio (A207) |
| Type | E 500 BlueEFFICIENCY V8 (408 Hp) 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | August, 2011 |
| End of production | March, 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.9 l/100 km (18.2 US mpg, 21.9 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 213 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) – Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 408 Hp @ 5000-5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 87.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 600 Nm @ 1600-4750 rpm (442.54 lb.-ft. @ 1600-4750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 278.922 |
| Engine displacement | 4663 cm3 (284.55 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92.9 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10.9 l (11.52 US qt | 9.59 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1845 kg (4067.53 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2335 kg (5147.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 490 kg (1080.27 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) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | 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, 360 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 300 mm |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Front tires | 235/40 R18; 235/35 R19 |
| Rear tires | 255/35 R18; 255/30 R19 |
| Front wheel rims | 8J x 18; 8J x 19; 8.5J x 19 |
| Rear wheel rims | 8.5J x 18; 8.5J x 19 |
INTRODUCTION
The A207 E 500 BlueEFFICIENCY Cabriolet was introduced in 2011 as part of a facelift for the A207 E-Class range. Built on the W207 chassis, it offered a luxurious open-top experience combined with a powerful V8 engine. The “BlueEFFICIENCY” designation indicated the inclusion of fuel-saving technologies, such as direct injection and optimized aerodynamics, though the focus remained firmly on performance. This model occupied the top tier of the E-Class Cabriolet lineup, offering a significant step up in power and refinement compared to the four-cylinder and V6 options.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the E 500 BlueEFFICIENCY Cabriolet lies the M278.922 4.7-liter V8 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated powerplant featuring direct fuel injection and twin turbochargers. It produces 408 horsepower at 5000-5750 rpm and a substantial 600 Nm (442.54 lb-ft) of torque between 1600 and 4750 rpm. The engine utilizes a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, a seven-speed unit, was the sole transmission option. This transmission is known for its smooth shifts and ability to adapt to driving conditions. It features a torque converter lock-up clutch for improved efficiency at cruising speeds. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned to balance acceleration with fuel economy, providing responsive performance in various driving scenarios.
Driving Characteristics
The E 500 BlueEFFICIENCY Cabriolet delivers a refined and powerful driving experience. The combination of the V8 engine and the 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission results in brisk acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.9 seconds. The engine’s broad torque curve provides ample power for effortless overtaking and cruising. While not as overtly sporty as some competitors, the E 500 offers a comfortable and confident ride. The suspension is tuned to provide a good balance between comfort and handling, absorbing bumps effectively while maintaining body control. Compared to the E 350 Cabriolet (with its V6 engine), the E 500 offers significantly more power and a more luxurious feel. The manual transmission options available on lower trims are absent, emphasizing the E 500’s focus on effortless performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 500 BlueEFFICIENCY Cabriolet came standard with a comprehensive list of features, befitting its flagship status. These included leather upholstery, wood trim, a premium sound system, automatic climate control, and a power-operated soft top. Standard safety features included ABS, traction control, stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included features such as the AIRMATIC semi-active suspension, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems like lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring. Interior color schemes were customizable, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicle. The dashboard layout and instrument cluster were typical of the A207 E-Class, with a focus on elegance and functionality.
Chassis & Braking
The A207 E-Class Cabriolet utilizes a robust chassis designed to provide rigidity and handling stability. The front suspension features a multi-link independent setup with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employs a multi-link independent setup with a stabilizer bar. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, with larger discs at the front (360mm) compared to the rear (300mm). ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, providing enhanced braking control in emergency situations. The steering is a hydraulic power-assisted rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 500 BlueEFFICIENCY Cabriolet was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the fuel economy, while improved by the BlueEFFICIENCY technologies, was still relatively high given the engine’s displacement. Compared to other luxury convertibles of the time, such as the BMW 6 Series Convertible and the Audi A5 Cabriolet, the E 500 offered a unique blend of performance and refinement. The E 350 Cabriolet, while more affordable, lacked the E 500’s outright power and prestige. The E 250 CDI (diesel) offered better fuel economy but lacked the V8’s character.
Legacy
The M278 engine, found in the E 500 BlueEFFICIENCY Cabriolet, has proven to be a relatively reliable powerplant when properly maintained. Common issues include occasional oil leaks and potential problems with the timing chain tensioners, but these are not widespread. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission is also generally reliable, although regular fluid changes are essential. Today, the A207 E 500 Cabriolet represents a desirable option in the used luxury convertible market. Its combination of performance, luxury, and relative reliability makes it an appealing choice for buyers seeking a sophisticated open-top experience. Values have remained relatively stable, reflecting the car’s enduring appeal and the reputation of the Mercedes-Benz brand.
