In 1990, to compete with BMW in the market for sporting saloons, Mercedes unveiled its 500 E. Outwardly, it was another W124 (the code name for the E-Class platform of the time). But under the bonnet with its three-pointed star, the manufacturer had found room for the V8 from the 500 SL, a 5-litre powerplant developing a trifling 326bhp. But more than its power output, it was its torque of 480Nm which gave the car such stirring acceleration, transmitted through a four-speed automatic gearbox which added to the performance.
For its running gear, Mercedes drew on the expertise of Porsche.
With uprated brakes, modified suspension and traction control, the 500 E was equipped to take on the competition. Against the stopwatch, its weight of 1.7 tons was soon forgotten, with a top speed of 250km/h (155mph) and a 0-100km/h (62 mph) time of just 6.1 seconds. It had the appearance of a sensible saloon, with only its lightly flared wings, 16-inch wheels specific to the model and a front bumper with an enlarged air intake giving away its sporting temperament, but it proved to be a formidable machine. Its character made it the car of choice for many F1 drivers, including Jacques Laffite, renowned tuners like Alois Ruf and celebrities such as Alain Ducasse, some of them covering more than 400,000km (250,000 miles) behind the wheel. In 1995, this powerful saloon bowed out after 10,500 cars car had been built. Although it is therefore not an especially rare model, it is becoming ever harder to find a car which has been maintained in original condition.
The car which we are offering at this auction is a splendid Mercedes 500 E W124. Bought new in 1991 by its Swiss owner to keep at his home in the south of France, it has never left the Côte d'Azur. It is most attractively finished in metallic black paintwork (paint code 199) with an interior in beige leather with soft leather door cards. The upholstery is superb, while the wood trim has also been very well preserved. The extensive equipment fitted to this prestigious saloon includes air conditioning and cruise control. The car has been scrupulously maintained, as the service booklet and substantial sheaf of invoices confirm. With just over 100,000km (62,000 miles) recorded, this powerful saloon handles well and accelerates strongly. With its 5-litre V8, the 500 E was a highly accomplished performer; in the mid-1990s it was the flagship of Mercedes' range. Today, it is very difficult to find a car in such fine condition and with a complete service history.

A 500 E in excellent condition
Reasonable mileage
One owner

French registration papers
N° de châssis/Chassis number: WDB1240361B437462
Motorisation: V8 - 4973 cm3 - 326 ch
Engine: V8 - 4973 cc - 326bhp