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2003 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Full Review
Date Published: 2/20/08
Also in the 2003 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Full Review
7.
8.
2003 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Review
Redesigned sedans and midyear addition of a high-performance model mark 2003 for Mercedes-Benz' best-selling line. Continuing in V6 and V8 form, '03 E-Class sedans are slightly larger but no heavier than their 1996-02 predecessors. Redesigned E-Class wagons are due for 2004; some carryover wagons were offered as 2003 models. Among sedans, the E320 retains a 221-hp V6. The E500 has a 302-hp 5.0-liter V8; it replaces the 275-hp E430. Added midyear, the E55 has a supercharged 469-hp 5.4 V8. All use a 5-speed automatic transmission with manual shift gate (the E55 adds manual-shift steering-wheel buttons). Antiskid/traction control is standard. So is ABS, now activated "by wire" to electronically modulate each wheel's brake pressure. Standard on V8s and available on the E320 is air suspension with three driver-selectable firmness levels. The E320 comes with 16-inch wheels, the E500 with 17s, the E55 18s. Front and rear side airbags, head-protecting curtain side airbags, and Mercedes' TeleAid assistance system are standard. Among options: rear-obstacle warning; voice-activated cell phone and navigation; Mercedes' Distronic cruise control designed to maintain a set following distance; and bi-xenon headlamps. Also available are heated/ventilated front seats and Dynamic Drive massaging front seats with bladders that inflate to counter cornering forces. A twin-sunroof option consists of a conventional sunroof over the front seats and a glass panel over the rears; a solar-cell version runs an interior cooling fan. Mercedes' optional Keyless Go credit-card-sized transmitter unlocks and starts the car. Developed by Mercedes' AMG racing arm, the E55 has exclusive trim and sport suspension, exhaust, and seats.
Competition
With wide price ranges and numerous body configurations, this diverse segment has two clear Best Buy choices--the refined Lexus LS 430 and the unique Audi A6. The LS 430 can't be beat for comfort and features at around $55,000, while the A6 earns Best Buy status for its blend of space, performance, design sophistication, powertrain choices, and workmanship at prices below those of most rivals.
We Recommend the Acura RL--a steal at around $45,000 fully equipped. Though it is a front-drive V6 in a field of V8 rear-drive models, it has a great ride, plenty of power, and is quite luxurious. If you are looking for something a bit more sporting, we Recommend BMW 5-Series. If your taste ranges more toward the luxury end, then take a look at the roomy Cadillac DeVille.
We Recommend the Acura RL--a steal at around $45,000 fully equipped. Though it is a front-drive V6 in a field of V8 rear-drive models, it has a great ride, plenty of power, and is quite luxurious. If you are looking for something a bit more sporting, we Recommend BMW 5-Series. If your taste ranges more toward the luxury end, then take a look at the roomy Cadillac DeVille.
News
As noted, redesigned E-Class wagons are due for 2004. Ditto the return of Mercedes' 4-Matic AWD option for both body styles. Also likely at about the same time, perhaps a bit later, is a new hot-rod E55 AMG sedan and, possibly, a first-ever wagon version. By 2005 or '06, all E-Class models should get the 6-speed automatic transmission now in development to replace the current 5-speed.
Expected in early 2004 is a "sport wagon" E-Class spinoff, previewed by the recent GST concept ("Grand Sport Tourer"). The production version will be built at Mercedes' Alabama plant in 5- and 7-passenger models said to measure a respective 190 and 200 inches long overall. Engines, which might include a tuned AMG V8, are borrowed from other current Mercedes, but 4-Matic AWD should be standard. The GSTs, which might be called "GS-Class," are designed for car-like handling and refinement, with tall-body styling but a lower profile than rival sport wagons like Audi's A6 allroad. Look for the full E-Class complement of airbags and other safety features, luxury interior, and high-end options like navigation and rear DVD entertainment.
The C-Class is now Mercedes' most popular U.S. model line. The E-Class used to be, but slipped by 10.3 percent in calendar 2001 and a more worrisome 24.3 percent in the first nine months of 2002. An ailing economy and an old basic design were the likely factors. Now that the design issue is moot, it'll be interesting to see how E-Class fares in coming months.
Expected in early 2004 is a "sport wagon" E-Class spinoff, previewed by the recent GST concept ("Grand Sport Tourer"). The production version will be built at Mercedes' Alabama plant in 5- and 7-passenger models said to measure a respective 190 and 200 inches long overall. Engines, which might include a tuned AMG V8, are borrowed from other current Mercedes, but 4-Matic AWD should be standard. The GSTs, which might be called "GS-Class," are designed for car-like handling and refinement, with tall-body styling but a lower profile than rival sport wagons like Audi's A6 allroad. Look for the full E-Class complement of airbags and other safety features, luxury interior, and high-end options like navigation and rear DVD entertainment.
The C-Class is now Mercedes' most popular U.S. model line. The E-Class used to be, but slipped by 10.3 percent in calendar 2001 and a more worrisome 24.3 percent in the first nine months of 2002. An ailing economy and an old basic design were the likely factors. Now that the design issue is moot, it'll be interesting to see how E-Class fares in coming months.
2003 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration | Automatic-transmission performance (E320, E500) |
| Steering/handling | Fuel economy (E55) |
| Build quality | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
E320 can feel languid until engine rpm rises, then it's smooth and quick: 7.3 sec 0-60 mph in our test. Test E500 feels faster, and is, at 5.6 sec. On both, "drive-by-wire" electronics don't consistently coordinate with transmission to furnish alert throttle response; using manual-shift feature helps. Unabated thrust from any speed supports Mercedes' claim of 4.5 sec 0-60 for E55.
| E320 sdn | E500 sdn w/Sport Pkg. | E55 | Class Average |
| 6 | 8 | 10 | 6.5 |
E320 can feel languid until engine rpm rises, then it's smooth and quick: 7.3 sec 0-60 mph in our test. Test E500 feels faster, and is, at 5.6 sec. On both, "drive-by-wire" electronics don't consistently coordinate with transmission to furnish alert throttle response; using manual-shift feature helps. Unabated thrust from any speed supports Mercedes' claim of 4.5 sec 0-60 for E55.
Fuel Economy
Test E320s averaged 18-23.7 mpg, E500s 19.4-22.4-mpg; the lower figures include gas-eating performance runs. No opportunity to measure with E55. All models require premium-grade fuel.
| E320 sdn | E500 sdn w/Sport Pkg. | E55 | Class Average |
| 5 | 4 | 3 | 4.5 |
Test E320s averaged 18-23.7 mpg, E500s 19.4-22.4-mpg; the lower figures include gas-eating performance runs. No opportunity to measure with E55. All models require premium-grade fuel.
Ride Quality
Stable always, but best in base-suspension E320, which is comfortably controlled and absorbent on most any surface. Sport Package E500 suffers body bounce and tire thump unless its air suspension set to softest mode. Better behaved is E55, which is firm but never punishing.
| E320 sdn | E500 sdn w/Sport Pkg. | E55 | Class Average |
| 9 | 6 | 6 | 7.1 |
Stable always, but best in base-suspension E320, which is comfortably controlled and absorbent on most any surface. Sport Package E500 suffers body bounce and tire thump unless its air suspension set to softest mode. Better behaved is E55, which is firm but never punishing.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Still not as nimble as rival 5-Series BMWs, but these sedans corner with grippy assurance, modest body lean. Antiskid system a boon in wet weather. E500 steering feels too heavy at low speed, and all models suffer too much on-center play. But straightline stability impressive. Potent stopping power, though "by-wire" brake-pedal feel could be more linear.
| E320 sdn | E500 sdn w/Sport Pkg. | E55 | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 8 | 6.7 |
Still not as nimble as rival 5-Series BMWs, but these sedans corner with grippy assurance, modest body lean. Antiskid system a boon in wet weather. E500 steering feels too heavy at low speed, and all models suffer too much on-center play. But straightline stability impressive. Potent stopping power, though "by-wire" brake-pedal feel could be more linear.
Quietness
Low but audible coarse-surface tire thrum. Wind rush generally modest. Engines rise to classy full-throttle growl, almost silent otherwise. E55 has sportier exhaust note, slightly more rear-tire noise.
| E320 sdn | E500 sdn w/Sport Pkg. | E55 | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 7 | 6.8 |
Low but audible coarse-surface tire thrum. Wind rush generally modest. Engines rise to classy full-throttle growl, almost silent otherwise. E55 has sportier exhaust note, slightly more rear-tire noise.
Controls
Clear gauges. Most controls illuminated. But some operations aren't obvious, including fussy audio system. Newly available in-dash CD changer is welcome, but its powered cover partly obscures the load slot. Four-zone temperature control available for E320, standard on others. Haven't yet tested latest E-Class navigation system, but hold out slim hope it's any less complex than prior setup. Steering-column stalk for cruise control too easily confused with turn-signal/wiper stalk. Modern, tasteful cabin decor, top-notch materials and assembly--though one test E500 suffered center-console creak.
| E320 sdn | E500 sdn w/Sport Pkg. | E55 | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.6 |
Clear gauges. Most controls illuminated. But some operations aren't obvious, including fussy audio system. Newly available in-dash CD changer is welcome, but its powered cover partly obscures the load slot. Four-zone temperature control available for E320, standard on others. Haven't yet tested latest E-Class navigation system, but hold out slim hope it's any less complex than prior setup. Steering-column stalk for cruise control too easily confused with turn-signal/wiper stalk. Modern, tasteful cabin decor, top-notch materials and assembly--though one test E500 suffered center-console creak.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Cabin feels a bit cozier than previous E-Class, but 6-footers have good head room, plenty of leg space. Seats, tilt/telescope steering wheel have ample power adjustments to tailor good driving stance. Dynamic Drive seats work subtly, seem frivolous. Outward visibility good.
| E320 sdn | E500 sdn w/Sport Pkg. | E55 | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.2 |
Cabin feels a bit cozier than previous E-Class, but 6-footers have good head room, plenty of leg space. Seats, tilt/telescope steering wheel have ample power adjustments to tailor good driving stance. Dynamic Drive seats work subtly, seem frivolous. Outward visibility good.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Supportive seat, but two adults the comfort maximum. Limited 6-footer head room. Toe space only adequate. Leg room restricted behind tall front-seater. Entry/exit cramped by narrow floor-level passages. "Panorama" sunroof steals no head space, but functions no better than a regular one-panel sunroof.
| E320 sdn | E500 sdn w/Sport Pkg. | E55 | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
Supportive seat, but two adults the comfort maximum. Limited 6-footer head room. Toe space only adequate. Leg room restricted behind tall front-seater. Entry/exit cramped by narrow floor-level passages. "Panorama" sunroof steals no head space, but functions no better than a regular one-panel sunroof.
Cargo Room
Long, wide trunk with flat floor. Conveniently low load sill, though trunk height isn't generous. Lid hinges eat into available space, but shielded to prevent cargo damage. Average in-cabin small-items storage.
| E320 sdn | E500 sdn w/Sport Pkg. | E55 | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 3.9 |
Long, wide trunk with flat floor. Conveniently low load sill, though trunk height isn't generous. Lid hinges eat into available space, but shielded to prevent cargo damage. Average in-cabin small-items storage.
Value within Class
Their design is more contemporary and sophisticated inside and out, but otherwise, the new E-Class sedans seem no huge advance over the fine cars they replace. They arguably move backward for interior room and, on E500s with the air suspension, for ride comfort. But they do offer worthwhile new features, cost about the same as previous models, and are built and furnished the way a Mercedes should be.
| E320 sdn | E500 sdn w/Sport Pkg. | E55 | Class Average |
| 8 | 6 | 5 | 5.7 |
Their design is more contemporary and sophisticated inside and out, but otherwise, the new E-Class sedans seem no huge advance over the fine cars they replace. They arguably move backward for interior room and, on E500s with the air suspension, for ride comfort. But they do offer worthwhile new features, cost about the same as previous models, and are built and furnished the way a Mercedes should be.
Total Score
| E320 sdn | E500 sdn w/Sport Pkg. | E55 | Class Average |
| 69 | 65 | 65 | 60.5 |
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
| Low Score | 48 | |
| Average Score | 60 | |
| High Score | 70 |
2003 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 06/05/2003
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
|
|
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| E320 4-door sedan | $46,950 | $43,664 | $720 |
|
|
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| E500 4-door sedan | $54,850 | $51,011 | $720 |
|
|
|||
| E55 4-door sedan | $76,000 | $70,680 | $720 |
Price note: E500 adds $1000 Gas-Guzzler Tax. E55 adds $1700 Gas-Guzzler Tax.
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
E320
Powertrain
3.2-liter V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front and rear side airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system, TeleAid emergency assistance system, emergency inside trunk release, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate control, interior air filter, power steering, power tilt/telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, vinyl/leather upholstery, 10-way power front bucket seats w/lumbar adjustment, center console, cupholders, memory system (front seats, mirrors, steering wheel), wood interior trim, heated power mirrors w/turn signals and driver-side automatic day/night, passenger-side mirror tilt-down back-up aid, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/weatherband/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, trip computer, automatic day/night rearview mirror, outside-temperature indicator, illuminated visor mirrors, universal garage-door opener, rain-sensing variable-intermittent wipers w/heated nozzles, rear defogger, map lights, automatic headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, front and rear fog lights, 225/55R16 tires, alloy wheels.
E500 adds to E320:
Powertrain
5.0-liter V8 engine.
Comfort and Convenience Features
4-zone automatic climate controls (including rear controls), leather upholstery.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Computer-controlled air suspension w/automatic level control, 245/45R17 tires.
E55 adds to E500:
Powertrain
5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Heated multicontour front seats, power sunroof, Harmon/Kardon AM/FM/cassette/CD player.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Sport suspension, full-size spare tire, 245/40ZR18 front tires, 275/35ZR18 rear tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
E1 Option Pkg.
|
||
|
E320, E500, E55
|
$1,150
|
$1,070
|
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Xenon headlamps, heated headlight washers.
|
||
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E2 Option Pkg.
|
||
|
E320, E500
|
$1,550
|
$1,442
|
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Power sunroof, Harman/Kardon sound system.
|
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E3 Sport Option Pkg.
|
||
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E320
|
$3,800
|
$3,534
|
|
E500
|
$1,375
|
$1,279
|
|
Special wood interior trim, xenon headlights w/washers, blue-tinted glass, body cladding, LED brake lights, 245/45R17 tires. E320 requires leather upholstery, Airmatic Dual-Control Suspension.
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E4 Option Pkg.
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E320
|
$550
|
$512
|
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Split folding rear seat w/ski sack, folding front passenger seat.
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E5 Option Pkg.
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|
E320, E500
|
$875
|
$814
|
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Heated seats and steering wheel.
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Airmatic Dual-Control Suspension
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E320
|
$1,575
|
$1,465
|
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Computer-controlled air suspension w/automatic level control.
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Safety |
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Rear-obstacle-detection system
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E320, E500, E55
|
$1,035
|
$963
|
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Tire-pressure monitor
|
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|
E320, E500, E55
|
$630
|
$586
|
|
|
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
|
COMAND System
|
||
|
E320, E500, E55
|
$2,125
|
$1,976
|
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Navigation system.
|
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Navigation CD collection
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E320, E500, E55
|
$145
|
$135
|
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Requires COMMAND System.
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Distronic adaptive cruise control
|
||
|
E320, E500, E55
|
$2,950
|
$2,744
|
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Power Panorama sunroof
|
||
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E320, E500, E55
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$1,500
|
$1,395
|
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Solar panel
|
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E320, E500, E55
|
$925
|
$860
|
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Provides power for ventilation while parked. Requires power Panorama sunroof.
|
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4-zone automatic climate controls
|
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E320
|
$550
|
$512
|
|
Full leather upholstery
|
||
|
E320
|
$1,440
|
$1,339
|
|
Heated front seats
|
||
|
E320, E500
|
$650
|
$605
|
|
Multicontour power front seats
|
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|
E320, E500
|
$755
|
$702
|
|
Active ventilated front seats
|
||
|
E320, E500
|
$1,200
|
$1,116
|
|
E55
|
$650
|
$605
|
|
Includes heated seats. E320 requires full leather upholstery.
|
||
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Drive Dynamic Seats
|
||
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E320, E500, E55, E55
|
$1,150
|
$1,070
|
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Automatic body-securing side bolsters.
|
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In-dash 6-disc CD changer
|
||
|
E320, E500, E55
|
$400
|
$372
|
|
Harman/Kardon sound system
|
||
|
E320, E500
|
$700
|
$651
|
|
Cellular telephone
|
||
|
E320, E500, E55
|
$1,595
|
$1,065
|
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Cellular telephone w/voice control
|
||
|
E320, E500, E55
|
$1,995
|
$1,437
|
|
Heated steering wheel
|
||
|
E320, E500
|
$400
|
$372
|
|
Wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel
|
||
|
E320, E500
|
$500
|
$465
|
|
Power rear sunshade
|
||
|
E320, E500
|
$440
|
$409
|
|
Rear side sunshades
|
||
|
E320, E500
|
$320
|
$298
|
|
Keyless Go
|
||
|
E320, E500, E55
|
$1,015
|
$944
|
|
Power trunk closer
|
||
|
E320, E500, E55
|
$475
|
$442
|
|
|
||
Appearance and Miscellaneous |
||
|
Special paint
|
||
|
E320, E500, E55
|
$655
|
$609
|
|
Requires special-order charge.
|
||
|
Special-order charge
|
||
|
E320, E500, E55
|
$1,150
|
$1,150
|
|
Fee for car ordered with one or more options requires special-order charge.
|
||
|
|
||
2003 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Mercedes-Benz E-Class 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 112.4 |
| Overall Length, in. | 190.3 |
| Overall Width, in. | 71.3 |
| Overall Height, in. | 57.0 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3635 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 15.9 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 20.6 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 37.4 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.9 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.7 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 35.6 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| sohc V6 | sohc V8 | Supercharged sohc V8 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 3.2 /195 | 5.0 /303 | 5.4 /332 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 221 @ 5700 | 302 @ 5600 | 469 @ 6100 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 232 @ 3000 | 339 @ 2700 | 516 @ 2650 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
|||
| 5-speed automatic | 19/27 | 16/23 | 14/20 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Mercedes-Benz E-Class 4-door sedan |
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
| Rollover Resistance | 5 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | None/-- | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | --/-- | Unlimited |
| Free scheduled maintenance | 4/50,000 | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Germany
Drivewheels:
rear-wheel drive
Also in the 2003 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Full Review
7.
8.
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