2002 Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Road Test
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2002 Mercedes-Benz E-Class ▼
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- MSRP: $48,450 -$71,350
- Invoice: $45,059 -$66,356
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Our road test for the 2002 Mercedes-Benz E-Class includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Mercedes-Benz E-Class from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Mercedes-Benz E-Class help you decide if a 2002 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| E320 sdn | E320 wgn | E430 sdn | E55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 6.2 |
Mercedes claims 0-60 mph at 7.1 sec for the rear-drive E320 sedan and 7.8 for the wagon. It pegs the E430 at 6.4 sec and the E55 at 5.4. Our tests suggest all are credible figures. Automatic transmission is smooth and responsive, regardless of model.
FUEL ECONOMY
| E320 sdn | E320 wgn | E430 sdn | E55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 4.6 |
Test averages mirror EPA city ratings, at around 20 mpg for the E320s, 17 for the E430s. Test E55 averaged 19.2 mpg, though with mostly highway driving. All models require premium fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| E320 sdn | E320 wgn | E430 sdn | E55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 7.2 |
A model blend of comfort and control. Stability great at highway speeds, and most bumps easily absorbed, though firm E55 thumps over rough pavement and expansion joints.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| E320 sdn | E320 wgn | E430 sdn | E55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 6.7 |
More athletic than the typical luxury 4 dr, but not as nimble as a BMW 5-Series. Still, steering firm and precise, body lean modest even in hard cornering. Traction/antiskid systems give these rear-drive cars acceptable grip on snowy roads, but 4Matic is unerring in any condition.
QUIETNESS
| E320 sdn | E320 wgn | E430 sdn | E55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 6.8 |
Engines well-muffled even at full throttle, and what little noise they make sounds classy. Low wind rustle too. Only minor tire rumble, but more in E55 than other models.
CONTROLS
| E320 sdn | E320 wgn | E430 sdn | E55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5 | 6 | 6.3 |
Mercedes' usual design and layout is mostly effective. Some switch markings not intuitive, though, and console-mounted power-window switches aren't to everyone's liking.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| E320 sdn | E320 wgn | E430 sdn | E55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 |
Wide console makes things feel cozy, but adults aren't confined. Ample leg-stretching space, plus good head clearance for 6-footers. All models offer good visibility from a comfortable, easily tailored driver's post.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| E320 sdn | E320 wgn | E430 sdn | E55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.4 |
A bulky transmission tunnel precludes long-distance comfort for a middle rider, but outboard leg room is good even with the long-travel front seats fully aft. No-strain entry/exit, too.
CARGO ROOM
| E320 sdn | E320 wgn | E430 sdn | E55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 8 | 4 | 4 | 4.2 |
Plentiful across the board, helped by flat floors and low liftovers. Wagon's standard rear-facing third seat folds easily for cargo, but is sized for kids, not grownups.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| E320 sdn | E320 wgn | E430 sdn | E55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 9 | 8 | 4 | 5.1 |
Unqualified Best-Buy luxury choices, with top-notch quality, high resale value, great all-around performance, and many safety features, including available 4Matic. The E320s are the best dollar buys.
Total Score
| E320 sdn | E320 wgn | E430 sdn | E55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 69 | 72 | 66 | 62 | 59.5 |
Total Score: 67
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