The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet (A238) E 300, equipped with the 245 horsepower engine and 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, represents a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and open-air driving enjoyment. Produced from 2017 to 2018, this variant occupied a significant position within the A238 generation, offering a step up in power and refinement from the base E 200 models while remaining more accessible than the higher-performance E 400 and AMG variants. It was primarily marketed towards buyers seeking a sophisticated convertible experience with a balance of spirited driving and comfortable cruising.
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-Class |
| Generation | E-Class Cabrio (A238) |
| Type (Engine) | E 300 (245 Hp) 9G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.8-9.2 l/100 km (26.7 – 25.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.7-6.2 l/100 km (41.3 – 37.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.8-7.2 l/100 km (34.6 – 32.7 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 154-167 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7 kg/Hp, 143.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 217 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 245 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 370 Nm @ 1300-4000 rpm (272.9 lb.-ft. @ 1300-4000 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 |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine oil capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1705 kg (3758.88 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2275 kg (5015.52 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 310 l (10.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 385 l (13.6 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.) |
| Length | 4826 mm (190 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2055 mm (80.91 in.) |
| Height | 1428 mm (56.22 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2873 mm (113.11 in.) |
| Front track | 1605 mm (63.19 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1609 mm (63.35 in.) |
| Front overhang | 841 mm (33.11 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1112 mm (43.78 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.37 m (37.3 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The E 300 Cabriolet utilizes the M274.920 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine, a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family. This engine benefits from direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler, enabling a robust 245 horsepower and 370 Nm (272.9 lb.-ft.) of torque. The turbocharger is strategically designed to provide strong low-end torque, minimizing turbo lag and delivering responsive acceleration. The engine’s architecture incorporates features like a cam-in-head valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its efficiency and power output. Paired with this engine is the 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission. This transmission is known for its smooth shifts, wide gear ratio spread, and contribution to improved fuel economy. The 9G-TRONIC allows the engine to operate within its optimal efficiency range more frequently, enhancing both performance and fuel savings.
Driving Characteristics
The E 300 Cabriolet with the 9G-TRONIC transmission delivers a refined and comfortable driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 6.3 seconds, and 0-100 km/h in 6.6 seconds, providing ample power for everyday driving and highway merging. The 9G-TRONIC transmission’s close gear ratios ensure that the engine is consistently in its power band, resulting in smooth and effortless acceleration. Compared to the base E 200 models, the E 300 offers a noticeable increase in performance, particularly in overtaking situations. While not as overtly sporty as the E 400 or AMG variants, the E 300 strikes a good balance between performance and comfort. The automatic transmission prioritizes smooth shifts and fuel efficiency, which some drivers might find less engaging than a manual transmission, but it contributes to a more relaxed driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 300 Cabriolet came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and a suite of safety technologies such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Interior trim options included various wood veneers and aluminum accents, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin to their preferences. Optional extras included a head-up display, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems. The Cabriolet-specific features included a fully automatic fabric soft top, which could be raised or lowered in around 20 seconds at speeds up to 50 km/h (31 mph). The standard dashboard configuration featured a dual 12.3-inch display screen, combining the instrument cluster and infotainment system into a single, integrated unit.
Chassis & Braking
The A238 E-Class Cabriolet utilizes an independent multi-link suspension system at both the front and rear axles, providing a comfortable ride and precise handling. The suspension is tuned to balance comfort and stability, minimizing body roll during cornering. The E 300 Cabriolet is equipped with disc brakes on all four wheels, with ventilated discs at the rear for improved heat dissipation. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, along with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist. The chassis is reinforced to compensate for the lack of a fixed roof, ensuring structural rigidity and minimizing vibrations. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to further reduce body roll and enhance handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 300 Cabriolet was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its comfortable ride, refined interior, and strong performance. The 9G-TRONIC transmission was lauded for its smoothness and efficiency. Compared to the E 200 Cabriolet, the E 300 offered a significant performance upgrade without the higher price tag of the E 400. Fuel economy figures of 6.8-7.2 l/100 km (34.6 – 32.7 US mpg) were considered competitive for its class. Reliability reports have generally been positive, with few major issues reported with the M274 engine and 9G-TRONIC transmission. However, like all modern vehicles, regular maintenance is crucial to ensure long-term reliability.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet (A238) E 300 has established itself as a desirable used car, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and open-air enjoyment. The M274 engine and 9G-TRONIC transmission have proven to be relatively reliable, although preventative maintenance, such as regular oil changes and transmission fluid services, is essential. The A238 generation represents a significant step forward in terms of technology and refinement compared to its predecessors, making it a popular choice among buyers seeking a sophisticated and well-equipped convertible.
