Quote:
Originally Posted by onewhippedpuppy
All of these W124 threads are killing me and reviving my lust for a 500E. I've driven multiple I6 and V8 W124 models and always came away impressed with the build quality, as well as the overall solid feel of the car. I'm also a sucker for the sculpted brick styling, I think it's timeless Mercedes. Obviously there isn't a 500E at my local Carmax that I can test drive, so I'd like to hear from those that have driven them, or better yet owned one. I've done enough research to understand the issues, so I'd prefer to hear about driving impressions.
Yes, I realize that the average V6 sedan is just as fast in a straight line, and I don't care.  Comparisons to similar sedans would be relevant as well, such as the W210 E55, W202 C43, E34 M5, or X308 XJR. I've owned an XJR, driven an E55, and owned a W202 C36, so I have decent baseline in that department. |
I had a 1994 E500 and it was simply amazing. The curves, the V8-power that growled with a Remus exhaust, the Porsche/MBZ collaboration and a reliable M119 made that car very special to me - not to mention the 040 exterior and interior also made it rare.
Some common pitfalls (some of which I personally encountered):
-Leaking power steering pump
-Faulty wiring harness
-Bad ignition control module (EZL)
-Faulty throttle actuator (limp home mode)
Other than that, the car was pretty much solid, especially considering my .036 was approaching 200kmi - it was an excellent DD (personally), and the MPG wasn't so bad as long as my right foot behaved
. I'd pick another one up if I could find it in that color scheme.
I say go for it! Search 500eboard.org - that's where I found mine.
With a few mods to give it a fresh look, how can you say no?
Happy hunting!