The Mercedes-Benz E 430 V8 Automatic, produced between April 1996 and July 1999, represents a high-performance variant within the W210 E-Class range. Positioned as a near-luxury offering, it bridged the gap between the more common six-cylinder models and the flagship E 55 AMG. This model was primarily aimed at the North American market, where larger displacement engines were highly favored, and also saw moderate sales in Europe. The E 430 offered a significant step up in power and refinement compared to its siblings, appealing to buyers seeking a blend of comfort and performance in a traditionally styled sedan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class (W210) |
| Type (Engine) | E 430 V8 (279 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | April, 1996 |
| End of production | July, 1999 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 16.8 l/100 km (14 US mpg, 16.8 UK mpg, 6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 11.3 l/100 km (20.8 US mpg, 25 UK mpg, 8.8 km/l) |
| 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), Electronically limited |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.9 kg/Hp, 169.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 242.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 279 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 3000 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 113 E 43 / 113.940 |
| Engine displacement | 4266 cm3 (260.33 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89.9 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11 l (11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1650 kg (3637.63 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2180 kg (4806.08 lbs.) |
| Max load | 530 kg (1168.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 4795 mm (188.78 in.) |
| Width | 1799 mm (70.83 in.) |
| Height | 1439 mm (56.65 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2833 mm (111.54 in.) |
| Front track | 1534 mm (60.39 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1528 mm (60.16 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, 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 | 215/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 430 is the M113 E 43 V8 engine, a 4.3-liter (4266 cc) naturally aspirated powerplant. This engine, part of Mercedes-Benz’s new generation of V8s introduced in the mid-1990s, featured all-aluminum construction, a significant departure from the cast-iron blocks of previous generations. It employed a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design per cylinder bank, with three valves per cylinder (two intake, one exhaust). Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, ensuring precise fuel metering. The M113 was known for its smooth power delivery and relatively high specific output for a naturally aspirated engine of its time. The engine was longitudinally mounted in the engine bay, driving the rear wheels.
The E 430 was exclusively offered with a 5-speed automatic transmission (722.6). This transmission was a torque-converter type, providing smooth and comfortable shifts. While not as sporty as a manual transmission, it was well-suited to the E 430’s grand touring character. The automatic transmission featured electronically controlled shift points, adapting to driving conditions and driver input.
Driving Characteristics
The E 430 Automatic offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to the inline-six cylinder E-Class models. The V8 engine provided ample torque throughout the rev range, resulting in effortless acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint was achieved in approximately 6.3 seconds, making it a genuinely quick sedan for its era. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did result in some power loss compared to a manual transmission. The gear ratios were tuned for comfortable cruising, with a focus on relaxed highway driving. Handling was secure and predictable, thanks to the well-tuned suspension, but the E 430 wasn’t designed to be a corner carver. It prioritized ride comfort and stability over outright agility.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 430 came standard with a generous array of features, reflecting its position as a premium model. Standard equipment included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and alloy wheels. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, heated seats, and upgraded interior trim options. The interior design was typical of Mercedes-Benz at the time, emphasizing luxury and understated elegance. The dashboard layout was functional and well-organized, with a focus on ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The E 430 utilized a double wishbone suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consisted of ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and stability during emergency braking. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system with hydraulic power assistance, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 430 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. However, some critics noted that the automatic transmission could feel slightly sluggish at times. Compared to the E 320 (the inline-six cylinder model), the E 430 offered significantly more power and refinement, but at a higher price point. It also offered a more luxurious experience than the E 280. Fuel economy was predictably lower than the six-cylinder models, reflecting the larger engine displacement. Reliability was generally good, although the complex engine and electrical systems could require more maintenance over time.
Legacy
The M113 V8 engine proved to be a durable and reliable powerplant, and many E 430s remain on the road today. While maintenance costs can be higher than for the six-cylinder models, the E 430 offers a unique combination of performance, luxury, and classic Mercedes-Benz styling. In the used car market, the E 430 is often sought after by enthusiasts who appreciate its smooth power delivery and comfortable ride. It represents a sweet spot in the W210 E-Class range, offering a compelling alternative to the more common six-cylinder models and the high-performance E 55 AMG.
