The Mercedes-Benz E 290 Turbodiesel Automatic, produced between August 1996 and June 1999, was a significant variant within the W210 E-Class range. Positioned as a premium, fuel-efficient option, it catered to drivers prioritizing long-distance comfort and economy over outright performance. This model represented a continuation of Mercedes-Benz’s long-standing reputation for robust diesel engines, offering a blend of refinement and durability. It was part of the W210 generation, a model known for its substantial improvements in safety, technology, and overall build quality compared to its predecessor, the W124.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class (W210) |
| Type (Engine) | E 290 Turbodiesel (129 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | August, 1996 |
| End of production | June, 1999 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 129 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1800 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 602 DE 29 LA / 602.982 |
| Engine displacement | 2874 cm3 (175.38 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.4 mm (3.64 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 22:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1540 kg (3395.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2040 kg (4497.43 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| 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 | 1438 mm (56.61 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2833 mm (111.54 in.) |
| Front track | 1542 mm (60.71 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1536 mm (60.47 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| 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 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 290 Turbodiesel was the OM 602 DE 29 LA engine, a 2.9-liter inline-five cylinder diesel. This engine utilized precombustion chamber injection, a system common in Mercedes-Benz diesels of the era, known for its quiet operation and relatively clean combustion. The addition of a turbocharger and intercooler boosted output to 129 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque at a low 1800 rpm. This torque curve provided strong pulling power, particularly useful for highway cruising and towing. The engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The five-speed automatic transmission, a robust unit designed to handle the engine’s torque, was standard. This transmission wasn’t known for particularly quick shifts, but prioritized smoothness and reliability.
Driving Characteristics
The E 290 Turbodiesel Automatic offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to its gasoline-powered siblings, such as the E 280 or E 320. While lacking the outright acceleration of those models (0-60 mph in approximately 10.9 seconds), it excelled in providing effortless cruising and impressive fuel economy. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly sporty, with gear ratios optimized for fuel efficiency rather than performance. The strong low-end torque meant that overtaking maneuvers were manageable, but required planning. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic offered greater convenience, but at the expense of some responsiveness and fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 290 Turbodiesel Automatic typically came well-equipped, reflecting Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to luxury. Standard features included power windows, power locks, a sunroof, and air conditioning. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with leather available as an option. The dashboard layout was typical of the W210, featuring a straightforward design with clearly marked controls. Optional extras included a premium sound system, heated seats, and automatic climate control. The wood trim was a popular option, adding a touch of elegance to the cabin.
Chassis & Braking
The W210 E-Class featured a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The E 290 Turbodiesel, due to its weight, benefited from the sophisticated suspension design. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety. The steering was a hydraulic power-assisted rack and pinion system, offering precise control and reasonable feedback.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 290 Turbodiesel Automatic was generally well-received by critics and buyers alike. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and robust build quality. However, some reviewers noted the lack of outright performance compared to gasoline-powered models. In terms of fuel economy, the E 290 Turbodiesel significantly outperformed its gasoline counterparts, achieving around 33 mpg in city driving and 48 mpg on the highway. Compared to other diesel models in the lineup, such as the E 300 Turbodiesel, the E 290 offered a slightly more refined driving experience and a more modern engine.
Legacy
The OM 602 engine family, including the 2.9-liter variant found in the E 290 Turbodiesel, is renowned for its durability and longevity. Properly maintained examples can accumulate very high mileage with minimal major issues. In the used car market today, the E 290 Turbodiesel Automatic remains a sought-after vehicle by enthusiasts and those seeking a reliable and fuel-efficient classic Mercedes-Benz. While parts availability can be a concern, the engine’s robust design and relatively simple mechanics make it a relatively easy vehicle to maintain for those with mechanical aptitude. The W210 E-Class, and the E 290 Turbodiesel in particular, represents a high point in Mercedes-Benz engineering, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and durability that continues to appeal to drivers today.
