Lot 206 - 1998 Mercedes-Benz 500E
| Lot Number | 206 |
| Registration | H608 JLC |
| Chassis Number | WDB1240361B494239 |
| Odometer reading | 80,000 miles |
| Result | Sold - £26,602 |
From 1990 to 1995, Mercedes-Benz sold a high-performance version of the W124, the Mercedes-Benz 500E. It was created in close co-operation with Porsche; each one being hand-built by Porsche and transported back and forth between the Mercedes-Benz plant and Porsche's Rössle-Bau plant in Zuffenhausen, Germany during assembly, with a full 18 days being taken to complete each car. The 500E had a naturally aspirated 5.0 litre, V8 engine derived from the 500SL (R129) and braking performance also came from SL components. The 500E was manufactured as a four-seat saloon and in left-hand drive only. The leather seats were supplied by Recaro with the fronts being electrically operated and heated. Called the 'Wolf in Sheep's Clothing' by the press, performance tests of the day yielded impressive results with 0-62 mph times of 5.5 to 6.0 seconds. The top speed was 161.5mph with the engine speed limited to 6000rpm. With its aggressive stance, wider track, lower profile, flared wheel arches, side skirts, front air-dam and wider tyres, the 500E is easily distinguished from its lesser brethren.
This Mercedes-Benz 500E W124 saloon was manufactured in 1991 and first registered in the UK in January 1998. Presenting well in Blue Black which is complemented by a chequered interior trim with leather bolsters, these understated power houses are becoming more popular and we believe rightly so. This desirable pre facelift Mk. I model has benefitted from a £2,000 service with Mercedes specialists SS Motors which included a change to both coolant and brake fluid. Previous owners of the 500E model have included the actor and historic race enthusiast, Rowan Atkinson. This example is offered to auction with a V5C registration document and an MoT test certificate valid until May 2023 and a file containing various receipts for maintenance work carried out since 2018, including a complete new exhaust system. Because of its look, limited numbers, handbuilt construction at Porsche and its unique pedigree, the 500E is already considered a classic, even within Mercedes-Benz and this therefore represents an ideal opportunity to acquire a very special car.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.