The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet (A207) facelift, produced from June 2013 to March 2017, was a mid-cycle refresh of the second-generation E-Class convertible. The E 200 variant, equipped with a 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 184 horsepower, served as the entry-level model in the E-Class Cabriolet lineup. Positioned below the more potent E 250 and E 350, the E 200 aimed to deliver a balance of luxury, comfort, and reasonable fuel efficiency, appealing to buyers who prioritized open-air driving. This model was primarily marketed in European countries, where smaller engine displacements were favored due to tax regulations and fuel costs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-Class |
| Generation | E-Class Cabrio (A207, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | E 200 (184 Hp) |
| Start of production | June, 2013 |
| End of production | March, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.3-8.5 l/100 km (28.3 – 27.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2-5.4 l/100 km (45.2 – 43.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.4-6.5 l/100 km (36.8 – 36.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 150-152 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 235 km/h (146.02 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 184 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1200-4000 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 1200-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 274.920 |
| Engine displacement | 1991 cm3 (121.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.3 l (6.66 US qt | 5.54 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1630 kg (3593.53 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2175 kg (4795.05 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 (braked) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (unbraked) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4703 mm (185.16 in.) |
| Width | 1786 mm (70.31 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2016 mm (79.37 in.) |
| Height | 1398 mm (55.04 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2760 mm (108.66 in.) |
| Front track | 1538 mm (60.55 in.) |
| Rear track | 1541 mm (60.67 in.) |
| Front overhang | 862 mm (33.94 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1081 mm (42.56 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.15 m (36.58 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| 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 | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Front tire size | 235/45 R17; 235/40 R18; 235/35 R19 |
| Rear tire size | 235/45 R17; 255/35 R18; 255/30 R19 |
| Front wheel rim size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18; 8J x 19; 8.5J x 19 |
| Rear wheel rim size | 7.5J x 17; 8.5J x 18; 8.5J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The E 200 Cabriolet was powered by the M274.920 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine was part of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, renowned for its efficiency and refinement. It incorporated direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler, achieving a balance between power output and fuel economy. The engine generated 184 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque, readily available from a low 1200 rpm to 4000 rpm. This broad torque curve contributed to relaxed cruising and acceptable acceleration. A 6-speed manual transmission was standard, though the popular 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission was offered as an option. The automatic provided smoother gear changes and greater convenience, albeit with a slight reduction in fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The E 200 Cabriolet, with its 184 hp and modest torque, delivered a comfortable and refined driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 8.2 seconds, which was adequate but not particularly sporty. Compared to the E 250 (211 hp) or E 350 (306 hp) models, the E 200 felt noticeably less powerful, especially when carrying passengers or climbing hills. The 6-speed manual transmission offered precise shifts, but the gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency rather than performance. The optional automatic transmission, while smooth, could occasionally hesitate during quick overtaking maneuvers. The Cabriolet’s soft top effectively minimized wind noise, and the suspension prioritized ride comfort over aggressive handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 200 Cabriolet came standard with a comprehensive set of features, including automatic climate control, leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and a multi-function steering wheel. Standard safety equipment included ABS, ESP, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included a premium sound system, navigation system, heated seats, and the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission. The ‘Avantgarde’ and ‘AMG Sport’ trim packages offered additional styling and interior upgrades. The Avantgarde package typically featured chrome trim, unique alloy wheel designs, and enhanced interior materials. The AMG Sport package added more aggressive body styling, a sport-tuned suspension, and perforated leather seats.
Chassis & Braking
The A207 E-Class Cabriolet utilized a robust chassis designed for both comfort and handling. The front suspension featured coil springs and an independent multi-link setup with a transverse stabilizer bar. The rear suspension also employed an independent multi-link design with a stabilizer bar. The E 200 was equipped with ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power assistance, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 200 Cabriolet generally received positive reviews from automotive critics, who praised its comfortable ride, refined interior, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted the engine’s lack of outright power. Compared to the E 250, the E 200 offered a more affordable entry point into the E-Class Cabriolet range, but at the expense of performance. The E 200’s fuel economy was a significant advantage, achieving around 36.8 mpg on the combined cycle, making it a more economical choice. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the electronic systems.
Legacy
The M274 engine family, including the 1.8-liter unit in the E 200, proved to be reasonably reliable, provided regular maintenance is performed. Common issues include occasional oil leaks and potential problems with the turbocharger. In the used car market, the E 200 Cabriolet represents a more accessible option for those seeking a luxurious open-top experience. Its lower running costs and generally good reliability make it an appealing choice for buyers who don’t prioritize maximum performance. The A207 E-Class Cabriolet is remembered as a stylish and well-engineered convertible that offered a compelling combination of luxury, comfort, and practicality.
