The Mercedes-Benz E 220 CDI, produced from July 1999 to March 2002, was a key variant within the facelifted W210 E-Class range. Representing a significant step towards modern diesel technology for Mercedes-Benz, this model combined a 2.2-liter turbocharged diesel engine with a five-speed automatic transmission. It occupied a middle ground in the W210 lineup, offering a balance between fuel efficiency, refinement, and performance, appealing to buyers seeking a comfortable and economical luxury sedan. The W210 facelift, introduced in 1999, addressed many criticisms of the pre-facelift models, improving build quality and aesthetics.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class (W210, facelift 1999) |
| Type (Engine) | E 220 CDI (143 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | July, 1999 |
| End of production | March, 2002 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| 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 | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 212 km/h (131.73 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.1 kg/Hp, 89.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 198.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 143 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 315 Nm @ 1800 rpm (232.33 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 611 DE 22 LA / 611.961 |
| Engine displacement | 2148 cm3 (131.08 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| 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 | 1590 kg (3505.35 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2090 kg (4607.66 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 | 4818 mm (189.69 in.) |
| Width | 1799 mm (70.83 in.) |
| Height | 1440 mm (56.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2833 mm (111.54 in.) |
| Front track | 1542 mm (60.71 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1536 mm (60.47 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| 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 | 205/65 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 220 CDI is the OM 611 DE 22 LA engine, a 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine represented a significant advancement in Mercedes-Benz’s diesel technology, utilizing a common rail direct injection system. This system allowed for more precise fuel delivery, resulting in improved combustion efficiency, reduced noise, and lower emissions compared to older diesel designs. The engine featured a turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power output to 143 horsepower at 4200 rpm and 315 Nm (232 lb-ft) of torque at a low 1800 rpm. The five-speed automatic transmission, a standard feature, was designed to provide smooth and comfortable gear changes, prioritizing refinement over outright performance. The transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy and relaxed cruising, rather than aggressive acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The E 220 CDI Automatic offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not a sports sedan, the engine provided adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 10.2 seconds, and the top speed was 212 km/h (131.73 mph). The automatic transmission contributed to a smooth ride, but it could sometimes feel hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the more powerful E 320 CDI or the sportier E 320 with its gasoline engine, the E 220 CDI prioritized fuel efficiency and lower running costs. The relatively high weight of the W210 chassis, around 1590 kg (3505 lbs), did impact overall performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 220 CDI Automatic typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included automatic climate control, power windows and mirrors, central locking, and an audio system. Interior upholstery was usually cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, navigation, and various driver assistance features. The dashboard layout was typical of the W210 facelift, featuring a clean and functional design with wood trim accents. The E 220 CDI was positioned as a mid-range offering, bridging the gap between the more basic E 200 Kompressor and the more luxurious E 320 models.
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 220 CDI typically came equipped with ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The suspension was tuned for comfort, prioritizing ride quality over sporty handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 220 CDI was generally well-received by critics and buyers alike. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined engine. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could be slow to respond at times. Compared to the gasoline-powered E 200 Kompressor, the E 220 CDI offered significantly better fuel economy and more torque, making it a more practical choice for long-distance driving. Against the more powerful E 320 CDI, the E 220 CDI offered a lower purchase price and lower running costs, but at the expense of performance.
Legacy
The OM 611 engine family, including the DE 22 LA variant found in the E 220 CDI, proved to be remarkably durable and reliable. With proper maintenance, these engines can accumulate high mileage without major issues. In the used car market today, the W210 E 220 CDI is often sought after by buyers looking for a comfortable, economical, and well-built luxury sedan. While age and mileage are factors to consider, these cars represent a good value proposition for those seeking a classic Mercedes-Benz experience. Common issues include wear and tear on suspension components and potential problems with the automatic transmission, but these are generally manageable with regular maintenance and repair.
