The Mercedes-Benz E-Class T-modell (S210) E 220 CDI, produced from January 1998 to July 1999, represented a compelling blend of practicality and efficiency within the W210 series. This variant, a diesel-powered station wagon (estate), occupied a significant position in the European market, offering a spacious and versatile vehicle for families and professionals. It was positioned as a mid-range offering, bridging the gap between the more basic E 200 CDI and the higher-performance E 320 CDI models. The S210 chassis, introduced in 1996, brought a modern estate car design to the E-Class range, emphasizing cargo capacity and passenger comfort.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-Class |
| Generation | E-Class T-modell (S210) |
| Type (Engine) | E 220 CDI (125 Hp) |
| Start of production | January, 1998 |
| End of production | July, 1999 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg, 11 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 193 km/h (119.92 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.2 kg/Hp, 75.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 181.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 125 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 58.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1800 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 611 DE 22 LA / 611.960 |
| Engine displacement | 2151 cm3 (131.26 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.4 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 19:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1650 kg (3637.63 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2230 kg (4916.31 lbs.) |
| Max load | 580 kg (1278.68 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 600 l (21.19 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1975 l (69.75 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4816 mm (189.61 in.) |
| Width | 1799 mm (70.83 in.) |
| Height | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2833 mm (111.54 in.) |
| Front track | 1542 mm (60.71 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1546 mm (60.87 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Hydraulic elements, Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The E 220 CDI was powered by the OM 611 DE 22 LA engine, a 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine, part of the OM611 family, was a significant step forward for Mercedes-Benz in diesel technology. It featured a sophisticated common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine also incorporated a turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power output to 125 horsepower and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque. The engine’s DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain further optimized performance. The five-speed manual transmission was standard, providing a balance between fuel economy and drivability. While an automatic transmission was available, the manual was favored by drivers seeking more control and slightly better fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The E 220 CDI T-modell offered a comfortable and refined driving experience, prioritizing fuel economy and practicality over outright performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 11.1 seconds, and top speed was approximately 119.92 mph. While not a sports car, the engine provided ample torque for everyday driving and highway cruising. The manual transmission allowed for precise gear selection, and the relatively long gearing contributed to good fuel economy. Compared to the more powerful E 320 CDI, the E 220 CDI felt less strained during acceleration, but lacked the same level of responsiveness. The suspension, tuned for comfort, absorbed bumps and imperfections in the road effectively, making it a pleasant long-distance cruiser.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 220 CDI T-modell came reasonably well-equipped as standard. Features typically included power windows, central locking, air conditioning, and an AM/FM radio. Interior upholstery was usually cloth, although leather was available as an option. The dashboard layout was typical of the W210 E-Class, with a functional and understated design. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio system, automatic climate control, and heated seats. The estate body style itself was a key feature, offering a generous 600 liters of cargo space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1975 liters with them folded down.
Chassis & Braking
The S210 chassis featured a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The E 220 CDI was equipped with ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and stability during braking. The steering was a hydraulic power-assisted rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive control. The standard tire size was 205/65 R15, mounted on 7J x 15 inch wheels.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 220 CDI T-modell was well-received in the European market, particularly by those seeking a practical and fuel-efficient estate car. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and refined diesel engine. Compared to the E 200 CDI, the E 220 CDI offered a noticeable performance improvement, while remaining more affordable than the E 320 CDI. Fuel economy was a key selling point, with the E 220 CDI achieving around 35.1 US mpg on the combined cycle. Reliability was generally good, although the complex common rail injection system required careful maintenance.
Legacy
The OM 611 engine family, including the DE 22 LA variant found in the E 220 CDI, proved to be a durable and reliable powerplant. While modern diesel technology has advanced significantly, these engines continue to be respected for their longevity and fuel efficiency. In the used car market today, the W210 E-Class T-modell E 220 CDI remains a popular choice for those seeking a classic Mercedes-Benz estate car. However, potential buyers should be aware of the need for regular maintenance, particularly of the fuel injection system, and the potential for age-related issues. The E 220 CDI represents a significant chapter in Mercedes-Benz’s history, showcasing their commitment to diesel technology and the enduring appeal of the E-Class estate car.
