‘It goes sinfully fast for a family 4-door (155 mph, electronically limited). It has everything you’d expect in a Mercedes. And a few things you wouldn’t. Mostly, gobs of horsepower and an attitude that says…well, you know the word.’

Buyer / Seller Questions? 310-975-0272

Certainly the Mercedes-Benz 500E is part of the crème de la crème of 1990s’ motoring, long one of the Mercedes brand’s most desirable ‘young classic’ models.


Anyone in the know will already be slavering at this model designation: launched in 1990, 25 years ago, the Mercedes-Benz 500 E with V8 engine and subtly muscular body is the top-of-the-range model in the 124 model series.

A modest appearance, at first glance – this is one side of the Mercedes-Benz 500 E. Only the somewhat more voluminous wings, the slightly lower body and a modified front apron with inset fog lamps differentiate it from the other models in the 124 series. But then there’s the engine: eight cylinders in a ‘V’ configuration, a displacement of 5 liters, 326 PS (240 kW) of power. All of which makes this saloon something of a wolf in sheep’s clothing.

So it is perhaps hardly surprising that there are very few well-preserved 500 E/E 500 models still around. But anyone who does buy one, will find they have an exceptional and powerful saloon that is nevertheless extremely practical for everyday use.

Additional convenience features include air conditioning, electrically adjustable seats, cruise control, outside rearview mirrors (right electrically controlled), power windows, AM/FM radio, headlamp wiper/washer, armrest/storage, door pockets, and sun visors with vanity mirrors.

What sets this particular example apart is its great history. With a clean CARFAX report and receipt copies totaling over $40,000, you can rest assured that this vehicle has been meticulously maintained and cared for. The extensive investment made into the vehicle from November 2010 through August 2022 showcases the owner’s commitment to preserving its optimal condition. The precise handling and responsive performance of this Mercedes-Benz makes it a joy to drive, whether you’re cruising along the coast or navigating city streets. If you’re in the market for a luxurious German classic, look no further than this 500E that is mechanically sound.

The 500E was created in close cooperation with Porsche. With its engineering department being fully occupied with the development of the new S-Class, Mercedes-Benz commissioned Porsche in 1989 to redesign the W124 chassis to fit the 5.0L V8 used in the SL into it, along with the necessary changes on the suspension system and drive train.

During production Mercedes-Benz delivered parts to Porsche’s plant where the 500E chassis was hand-assembled. When finished the chassis were transported by truck to the Mercedes-Benz assembly plant to be painted. As soon as the paint was dry the varnished chassis were then shipped back to Porsche where the engine was put in and the car completed. For final inspection and delivery the vehicles again were transported to the Mercedes-Benz assembly plant. This process took a full 18 days per car.

18 days?

That’s nothing – considering this car will be with you for a lifetime.

-Alex Manos, Owner