The Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210) E 250 Turbodiesel, produced from July 1997 to July 1999, represented a compelling blend of luxury and fuel efficiency within the mid-size executive car segment. Positioned as a mid-range offering in the W210 lineup, it catered to buyers seeking the prestige of a Mercedes-Benz with the practicality and economy of a diesel engine. This variant occupied a space between the base E 220 D and the more powerful E 300 Turbodiesel, offering a balance of performance and running costs. The W210 generation, launched in 1995, was a significant departure from its predecessor (W124), introducing a more contemporary design and advanced technology.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class (W210) |
| Type (Engine) | E 250 Turbodiesel (150 Hp) |
| Start of production | July, 1997 |
| End of production | July, 1999 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 10.6 l/100 km (22.2 US mpg, 26.6 UK mpg, 9.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg, 12.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 206 km/h (128 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.9 kg/Hp, 101 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 188.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1800-3600 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 1800-3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 605 D 25 LA / 605.962 |
| 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 | 1485 kg (3273.86 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2060 kg (4541.52 lbs.) |
| Max load | 575 kg (1267.66 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4795 mm (188.78 in.) |
| Width | 1799 mm (70.83 in.) |
| Height | 1418-1438 mm (55.83 – 56.61 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2833 mm (111.54 in.) |
| Front track | 1540-1542 mm (60.63 – 60.71 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1531-1536 mm (60.28 – 60.47 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, 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 | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/65 R15; 215/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 15; 7.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 250 Turbodiesel was the OM 605 D 25 LA 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. The addition of a turbocharger and intercooler boosted output to 150 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 280 Nm (206.52 lb-ft) of torque between 1800 and 3600 rpm. The engine featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to improved breathing and efficiency. The five-speed manual transmission was standard, providing a balance between fuel economy and driver control. While an automatic transmission was available, it was often criticized for slightly diminishing the engine’s responsiveness.
Driving Characteristics
The E 250 Turbodiesel offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to its gasoline-powered siblings. While not a sports car, the engine’s ample torque provided strong acceleration from low speeds, making it well-suited for everyday driving and highway cruising. The 0-60 mph time of around 9.9 seconds was respectable for the era, and the top speed of 128 mph was more than adequate. The manual transmission allowed for precise gear selection, maximizing the engine’s efficiency. Compared to the E 300 Turbodiesel, the E 250 felt less powerful, but it offered better fuel economy and a slightly more refined driving experience. The automatic transmission, while convenient, resulted in a noticeable decrease in responsiveness and fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 250 Turbodiesel typically came equipped with a solid base of standard features, including power windows, central locking, and air conditioning. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, although leather was available as an option. Dashboard configuration was typical of the W210, featuring a straightforward layout with clearly marked gauges. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio system, and automatic climate control. The trim level largely dictated the level of luxury, with higher trims offering more wood trim and premium materials.
Chassis & Braking
The W210 E-Class featured a robust chassis with double wishbone suspension at the front and an independent multi-link spring suspension at the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The E 250 Turbodiesel 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 control. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles, reducing body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 250 Turbodiesel was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and build quality. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the refinement of some of its competitors. Compared to the E 220 D, the E 250 offered a noticeable performance boost, while the E 300 Turbodiesel provided even more power but at the expense of fuel economy. The E 250 struck a good balance between these two extremes, making it a popular choice for buyers seeking a practical and efficient luxury car.
Legacy
The OM 605 engine family, including the 2.5-liter variant found in the E 250 Turbodiesel, is renowned for its durability and longevity. With proper maintenance, these engines can reliably exceed 300,000 miles. Today, the W210 E 250 Turbodiesel remains a relatively affordable and practical classic car. While finding well-maintained examples can be challenging, the combination of Mercedes-Benz build quality and the robust diesel engine makes it a compelling option for enthusiasts and those seeking a reliable and fuel-efficient vehicle.
