The Mercedes-Benz E-Class T-modell (S210) E 250 D Automatic, produced from May 1996 to June 1999, represented a practical and efficient offering within the broader S210 estate range. Positioned as a mid-range variant, it catered to buyers seeking the versatility of a wagon with the fuel economy of a diesel engine, paired with the convenience of an automatic transmission. This model occupied a space between the more basic diesel options and the higher-performance gasoline-powered E-Class wagons. It was primarily sold in the European market, where estate cars held significant popularity.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-Class |
| Generation | E-Class T-modell (S210) |
| Type (Engine) | E 250 D (113 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | May, 1996 |
| End of production | June, 1999 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.6 l/100 km (20.3 US mpg, 24.4 UK mpg, 8.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 16.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 16.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 15.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 183 km/h (113.71 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 2 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.4 kg/Hp, 69.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.4 kg/Nm, 106.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 113 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 45.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 173 Nm @ 2800 rpm (127.6 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 605 D 25 / 605.912 |
| Engine displacement | 2497 cm3 (152.38 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87 mm (3.43 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 22:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1630 kg (3593.53 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2210 kg (4872.22 lbs.) |
| Max load | 580 kg (1278.68 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 530 l (18.72 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 885 l (31.25 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 72 l (19.02 US gal | 15.84 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 |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Hydro-pneumatic element, 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 250 D Automatic was powered by the OM 605 D 25 engine, a 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder diesel. This engine utilized precombustion chamber injection, a system common in Mercedes-Benz diesels of the era, known for its relatively quiet operation and good combustion efficiency. A turbocharger with an intercooler was employed to boost power output to 113 horsepower and 173 Nm (127.6 lb-ft) of torque. The engine’s robust construction and relatively low specific output contributed to its longevity. The automatic transmission was a five-speed unit, designed to provide smooth shifts and enhance driving comfort. This transmission was not known for its sportiness, prioritizing fuel efficiency and ease of use over rapid gear changes.
Driving Characteristics
The E 250 D Automatic offered a comfortable, albeit unhurried, driving experience. Acceleration was modest, with a 0-60 mph time around 15.8 seconds. The automatic transmission, while smooth, didn’t offer manual control or particularly aggressive shift programming. The focus was on relaxed cruising and fuel economy. Compared to the more powerful E 320 gasoline models, the E 250 D felt significantly slower. However, it offered a substantial improvement in fuel efficiency. The torque characteristics of the diesel engine provided adequate pulling power for everyday driving and hauling loads, making it a practical choice for families and those needing a versatile vehicle.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 250 D Automatic typically came equipped with standard features such as power windows, central locking, and air conditioning. Interior upholstery was usually cloth, although leather was available as an option. Dashboard configuration was typical of the S210, with a functional and understated design. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio system, and automatic climate control. The trim level was generally considered mid-range, offering a good balance of features and affordability.
Chassis & Braking
The S210 E-Class featured a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, often incorporating a hydro-pneumatic element for enhanced ride comfort. The E 250 D was equipped with ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The suspension setup was tuned for comfort and stability, prioritizing a smooth ride over sporty handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 250 D Automatic was well-received in Europe as a practical and economical wagon. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, but noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to the more powerful E 320 models, the E 250 D offered significantly better fuel economy, but at the cost of acceleration and overall driving excitement. The 1.8L gasoline variants offered a more engaging driving experience but were less fuel-efficient. The E 250 D represented a sensible compromise for buyers prioritizing practicality and economy.
Legacy
The OM 605 engine family, including the 605.912 found in the E 250 D, is renowned for its durability and reliability. Properly maintained examples can accumulate very high mileage with minimal major issues. Today, the S210 E 250 D Automatic is a relatively affordable classic, appealing to those seeking a practical and reliable estate car. While not a performance icon, it represents a well-engineered and durable vehicle that continues to provide years of service to its owners. Parts availability remains reasonably good, contributing to its continued viability as a used car.
