The Mercedes-Benz E 55 AMG, produced between June 2002 and June 2006, was a high-performance variant of the W211 E-Class sedan. Positioned as the flagship performance model within the W211 range, it offered a significant step up in power and handling compared to the standard E-Class models like the E320 or E500. The E 55 AMG represented Mercedes-AMG’s commitment to blending luxury with exhilarating performance, appealing to buyers seeking a powerful and refined executive sedan. It was a key competitor to models like the BMW M5 and Audi RS6 of the era.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-class |
| Generation | E-class (W211) |
| Type | AMG E 55 V8 (476 Hp) 5G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | June, 2002 |
| End of production | June, 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.1 l/100 km (14.6 US mpg, 17.5 UK mpg, 6.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.3 l/100 km (25.3 US mpg, 30.4 UK mpg, 10.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.9 l/100 km (18.2 US mpg, 21.9 UK mpg, 7.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.9 kg/Hp, 259.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.6 kg/Nm, 381.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 476 Hp @ 6100 rpm |
| Power per litre | 87.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 700 Nm @ 2650 rpm (516.29 lb.-ft. @ 2650 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 113.990 |
| Engine displacement | 5439 cm3 (331.91 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 97 mm (3.82 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 13.2 l (13.95 US qt | 11.61 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1835 kg (4045.48 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2360 kg (5202.91 lbs.) |
| Max load | 525 kg (1157.43 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 540 l (19.07 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 4849 mm (190.91 in.) |
| Width | 1822 mm (71.73 in.) |
| Height | 1412 mm (55.59 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2854 mm (112.36 in.) |
| Front track | 1567 mm (61.69 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer, Air suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 245/35 R18 Rear wheel tires: 265/35 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 8J x 18 Rear wheel rims: 9J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E 55 AMG is the M113.990 5.4-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine is notable for its robust construction and the addition of an intercooled supercharger, which significantly boosted power output. The M113 engine family was known for its reliability and durability. The engine featured a three-valve-per-cylinder (three intake, two exhaust) SOHC design and multi-port fuel injection. The supercharger, a Lysholm-type twin-screw unit, provided instant boost, contributing to the engine’s strong low-end torque. The 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a five-speed unit developed by Mercedes-Benz, was specifically tuned for the E 55 AMG to provide quick and smooth shifts. It featured a torque converter lock-up clutch for improved efficiency at cruising speeds and offered manual shift capability via steering wheel-mounted paddles.
Driving Characteristics
The E 55 AMG delivered a compelling driving experience. The supercharged V8 produced a substantial 476 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, resulting in brisk acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint was consistently achieved in around 4.5 seconds, and the electronically limited top speed of 155 mph provided ample performance for highway driving. The 5G-TRONIC transmission, while not as quick-shifting as some dual-clutch transmissions available in competing models, offered smooth and predictable gear changes. The air suspension provided a comfortable ride quality, while also minimizing body roll during cornering. Compared to the naturally aspirated E500, the E 55 AMG offered a dramatically increased level of performance, with significantly quicker acceleration and a more responsive throttle. The E 55 AMG’s driving experience was more focused on effortless power delivery than outright track performance, making it a comfortable and capable grand tourer.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E 55 AMG came standard with a comprehensive list of features. Interior appointments included premium leather upholstery, wood trim, and AMG-specific sport seats. Standard equipment also included automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and power-adjustable front seats with memory function. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and upgraded audio options. The exterior featured AMG body styling, including unique front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and quad exhaust outlets. The E 55 AMG’s interior was designed to provide a luxurious and sporty atmosphere, with a focus on comfort and refinement.
Chassis & Braking
The E 55 AMG featured a modified chassis and suspension system compared to the standard E-Class. The suspension utilized air suspension technology, providing adjustable ride height and damping. Upgraded stabilizer bars and stiffer springs further enhanced handling. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on all four wheels, coupled with ABS and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) for enhanced safety. The E 55 AMG’s braking performance was excellent, providing confident stopping power even under demanding conditions. The rear suspension utilized a multi-link design, contributing to improved ride quality and handling balance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E 55 AMG was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. However, some critics noted that the 5G-TRONIC transmission was not as responsive as some of its competitors. Fuel economy was also a concern, with combined fuel consumption averaging around 18 mpg. Compared to the BMW M5, the E 55 AMG offered a more comfortable ride and a more refined interior, but the M5 provided sharper handling and a more engaging driving experience. The Audi RS6 offered similar performance to the E 55 AMG, but with a different character and styling.
Legacy
The W211 E 55 AMG has developed a strong following among enthusiasts. The M113 engine is known for its reliability and durability, and the car is generally considered to be a well-built and dependable performance sedan. While maintenance costs can be higher than those of standard E-Class models, the E 55 AMG remains a popular choice in the used car market. Its combination of performance, luxury, and relative reliability has ensured its status as a desirable and collectible vehicle. Today, well-maintained examples command a premium price, reflecting their enduring appeal.
