The Mercedes-Benz 500E, a wolf in sheep’s clothing based on the W124 E-Class, is an automotive legend revered for its understated appearance concealing exhilarating performance. From a distance, it’s easy to mistake it for a regular W124, but a closer look reveals subtly aggressive fender flares and a more purposeful stance, hinting at the beast within. This isn’t just any E-Class; this is the Mercedes 500e W124, a high-performance sedan born from a unique collaboration with Porsche.
Beneath its subtly widened body lies a potent 5.0-liter V8 engine, borrowed from the SL roadster, delivering around 325 horsepower. This power propels the Mercedes 500E W124 from 0 to 60 mph in under six seconds, a remarkable feat for a car equipped only with a four-speed automatic transmission and possessing a substantial curb weight. This performance was comparable to, and even surpassed, its contemporary rivals like the BMW M5.
What truly sets the Mercedes 500E W124 apart is its co-development and hand-assembly by Porsche. Facing production capacity constraints at Mercedes, the project was outsourced to Porsche’s Rössle-Bau factory during a challenging period for the sports car manufacturer. Porsche significantly re-engineered the W124 chassis to accommodate the larger V8 and wider track. It’s reported that each Mercedes 500E W124 took a staggering 18 days to assemble by hand at Porsche, reflecting the meticulous craftsmanship involved. Beyond the engine bay, Porsche’s expertise extended to the chassis, suspension, and braking systems, endowing the Mercedes 500E W124 with exceptional handling and stopping power. The car received lowered and stiffened suspension, a bespoke body kit to accommodate the wider track, and upgraded, larger rotors and calipers.
Between 1990 and 1995, fewer than 10,000 Mercedes 500E W124 models were produced, with a mere 1,528 finding their way to the United States. This limited production run further solidifies its status as a highly collectible modern classic. The example featured here, like many others, is meticulously maintained, a testament to the enduring quality and desirability of the Mercedes 500E W124.
Experiencing the Mercedes 500E W124 firsthand reveals its true character. Cruising through urban landscapes, it blends seamlessly, its understated black-on-black aesthetic and subtle chrome accents avoiding unnecessary attention. Inside, the heated leather Recaro seats offer both comfort and support, reinforcing the car’s dual nature as a luxurious sedan and a performance machine. The interior is typically Mercedes of the era, functional and high quality without being overtly flashy.
Compared to its BMW M contemporaries of the same era, the Mercedes 500E W124 projects a more reserved and mature image. While both offer exhilarating performance, the 500E prioritizes understated sophistication over overt aggression. However, parked side-by-side, the muscular stance and widened fenders of the Mercedes 500E W124 subtly suggest its performance capabilities, hinting at its true potential.
The paintwork on this particular example further enhances its understated elegance. The “black” is not a solid, flat black, but a metallic hue that shifts between light blacks and dark greys, catching the light with a subtle sparkle. This nuanced paint finish, combined with the car’s clean lines and subtle curves, creates a captivating visual appeal that is both timeless and sophisticated.
Even with minor modifications like aftermarket AMG Monoblock wheels and temporary taillights (awaiting correct European-spec replacements), this Mercedes 500E W124 remains a faithful representation of the original concept. It stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of both Mercedes-Benz and Porsche, a true modern classic that transcends trends.
The Mercedes 500E W124 is more than just a fast sedan; it’s a refined, powerful, and enduring machine. While not as overtly aggressive as the AMG Hammer variants also based on the W124, the 500E was designed for everyday usability and effortless performance. It is a car built to cruise comfortably in the fast lane, and even with considerable mileage, examples like this 178,000-mile Mercedes 500E W124 demonstrate its lasting appeal and robust engineering. It’s a car that effortlessly blends into everyday traffic yet possesses the capability to thrill when the road opens up, truly embodying the spirit of a “sleeper” and cementing its place as a legend in automotive history.
