The allure of a convertible on a sun-drenched summer road is undeniable. While not always the preferred body style for every driver, the open-top experience offers a unique connection with the surroundings. This brings us to the spotlight of this review: the 2013 Mercedes-Benz E550 Convertible. Steeped in the legacy of the E-Class, which traces its roots back to the 1953 “Ponton” sedan, the convertible variant adds a layer of open-air freedom to the sophisticated E-Class lineage. Interestingly, while the E-Class evolved through generations, it wasn’t until the fifth iteration that a convertible graced its lineup. A subsequent generation temporarily replaced the coupe and convertible with the CLK model – a vehicle styled to echo the E-Class but built upon the C-Class platform. Having experienced the 2008 CLK350 Convertible previously, it was a pleasant, yet not particularly memorable, car. The CLK’s discontinuation in 2009 coincided with the E-Class’s redesign, marking the return of the coupe and convertible body styles to the eighth-generation E-Class family.
Exquisite Exterior Design: A Head-Turning Mercedes-Benz
Alt text: Front three quarter view of a silver 2013 Mercedes Benz E550 Convertible parked outdoors showcasing its split headlights and elegant front fascia.
Alt text: Side profile of a silver 2013 Mercedes Benz E550 Convertible highlighting its sleek silhouette and prominent character line.
Alt text: Rear view of a silver 2013 Mercedes Benz E550 Convertible emphasizing its distinctive taillights and integrated bumper design.
While recent Mercedes-Benz designs haven’t universally resonated, the pre-refresh 2013 E-Class Convertible stands out as genuinely beautiful. The preference for the pre-2014 fascia stems from its iconic split headlights, a design element that was replaced in the 2014 refresh with more conventional single-unit headlamps. These split headlights bestow the E550 with a unique visual identity, setting it apart from other vehicles on the road. The front bumper achieves a harmonious blend of elegance and subtle sportiness. Mesh inserts in the air intakes hint at performance, while seamlessly integrated LED daytime running lights add a touch of modern sophistication. Notably, the 2013 Mercedes Benz grille proudly features a traditional, see-through Mercedes-Benz star logo, a welcome departure from some later, solid plastic iterations found on newer models.
Moving to the side, the design language remains refined. A clean and elegant profile is accentuated by a strong character line sweeping from the front fender to the taillight. The subtly flared rear fenders are a nod to the original 1953 “Ponton” E-Class sedan, adding a touch of heritage to the modern design. At the rear, the striking taillights command attention, extending gracefully onto the trunk lid. Adding to the cohesive design, lines flowing from the taillights subtly shape the upper portion of the rear bumper, creating a sense of visual unity. The overall exterior of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz E550 Convertible is a testament to timeless Mercedes-Benz design, blending classic elegance with modern aesthetics.
Interior Ambiance: Stark Sophistication with a Pop of Color
Alt text: Interior view of a 2013 Mercedes Benz E550 Convertible showcasing the dashboard, orange leather seats, and center console.
Alt text: Close up of the orange leather seats in a 2013 Mercedes Benz E550 Convertible highlighting the stitching and material quality.
Alt text: Detail of the dashboard and trim in a 2013 Mercedes Benz E550 Convertible showing the air vents and wood accents.
Alt text: View of the center console and controls in a 2013 Mercedes Benz E550 Convertible with focus on the gear selector and infotainment system.
The interior of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz E550 Convertible presents a stark color palette, yet the vibrant orange leather seats inject a welcome dose of personality. This bold choice creates a striking contrast and elevates the cabin’s ambiance whether the top is up or down. The overall impression is one of sophisticated luxury, typical of the Mercedes Benz brand.
Despite being designated as the “Sport” trim, the 2013 E550 Convertible leans more towards comfortable cruising than outright athleticism. The steering, while light and easy at lower speeds, exhibits inconsistent weighting and a noticeable dead spot at the center. While the suspension is well-tuned for typical road surfaces, the inherent structural compromises of a convertible become apparent when encountering imperfections, especially in corners. Body flex and cowl shake are noticeable, reminding the driver of the convertible’s inherent limitations in rigidity. The car’s bulk is also evident during more spirited driving, with the steering feeling somewhat slow and deliberate. While it tends towards understeer when pushed, stability remains reassuring. Steering precision and quickness are commendable, although enhanced feedback would be beneficial. Ride quality is generally compliant, but the “Sport” trim’s stiffer suspension setup can transmit harshness from rough road surfaces into the cabin. However, highway cruising remains composed and comfortable.
Potent Performance: The Twin-Turbocharged V8 Engine
Alt text: Front view of a 2013 Mercedes Benz E550 Convertible engine bay showcasing the 4.7-liter twin-turbo V8 engine.
Alt text: Close-up view of the twin-turbocharged V8 engine of a 2013 Mercedes Benz E550 Convertible highlighting the engine components.
A significant powertrain update occurred prior to 2012. The previous 5.5-liter naturally aspirated V8, producing 382 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, was replaced with a smaller, yet more potent, 4.7-liter twin-turbocharged V8. This engine downsizing, a trend in the automotive industry, resulted in increased output figures: 402 horsepower and a substantial 443 lb-ft of torque. Having experienced the older 5.5-liter V8 in a friend’s 2008 E550 sedan, the reviewer notes a clear superiority in the twin-turbocharged engine across the board. Despite a general preference for naturally aspirated engines due to their linear power delivery, the 2013 Mercedes Benz E550 Convertible‘s turbocharged V8 impresses with its virtually nonexistent turbo lag and immediate power delivery from low revs. Responsiveness is exceptional, and acceleration feels effortless, never hindered by the convertible’s weight. The engine’s performance is so compelling that it’s genuinely difficult to articulate its sheer brilliance. The seven-speed automatic transmission, however, slightly detracts from the engine’s responsiveness. Under full throttle, a noticeable delay precedes abrupt gear changes.
Refinement and Comfort: Open-Top and Closed-Top Experiences
Alt text: Side view of a 2013 Mercedes Benz E550 Convertible with the top down showcasing its open-air configuration.
Alt text: Front view of a 2013 Mercedes Benz E550 Convertible with the top down highlighting the interior and occupants.
Alt text: Rear view of a 2013 Mercedes Benz E550 Convertible with the top down emphasizing the sleek rear design and open cabin.
With the convertible top lowered, refinement is surprisingly good. Wind buffeting is minimal, allowing occupants to comfortably enjoy the V8 engine’s glorious soundtrack. However, unexpectedly for a Mercedes-Benz, wind noise becomes noticeable with the top raised. While this level of wind noise might be acceptable in a mainstream brand, it feels somewhat out of place in a premium Mercedes Benz vehicle of this price point. Nevertheless, the V8 engine itself remains refined, delivering a harmonious and pleasing engine note.
Cabin and Practicality: A Luxurious and Functional Space
Alt text: Driver’s perspective inside a 2013 Mercedes Benz E550 Convertible showing the steering wheel, dashboard, and windshield.
Alt text: Front passenger seat and dashboard detail in a 2013 Mercedes Benz E550 Convertible highlighting the leather upholstery and trim.
Alt text: Rear seats of a 2013 Mercedes Benz E550 Convertible demonstrating the space and leather upholstery.
Alt text: Trunk space of a 2013 Mercedes Benz E550 Convertible showing the cargo capacity and convertible top storage.
In typical Mercedes-Benz fashion, the cabin is a luxurious and well-executed space. Fit and finish are exemplary, with meticulous attention to detail throughout. One minor ergonomic quirk is the windshield’s proximity to the driver’s head. Lowering the seat may exacerbate this, potentially obstructing the view over the hood for some drivers, making finding the ideal driving position a bit challenging. The leather seats are supremely comfortable, striking a balance between softness and support. Front cabin space is adequate, although a slightly more airy feeling would be welcome, particularly with the top raised.
The navigation system, part of Mercedes-Benz’s COMMAND system, is responsive but can be somewhat cumbersome to navigate, requiring multiple steps to reach desired functions. The climate controls are also positioned lower than ideal. Steering wheel button labeling could be clearer, as their function for volume or station selection isn’t immediately obvious. However, familiarity improves usability over time. Entry and exit are generally good, requiring a slight duck to avoid the windshield frame. Rear seat access is decent for a convertible, offering sufficient space for smaller adults. Visibility with the roof up is adequate, if not exceptional. The gauges are straightforward, although the gear selector indicator within the speedometer can be slightly difficult to read at a glance. The white and chrome gauge rings add a touch of classic elegance. Trunk space is generous, even with the top down, and cabin storage is also reasonably plentiful. The convertible top operation is quick and seamless, controlled by a switch discreetly located in a covered pod on the center console.
Alt text: Close-up of the instrument cluster in a 2013 Mercedes Benz E550 Convertible highlighting the gauges and white rings.
Alt text: Center console controls and buttons in a 2013 Mercedes Benz E550 Convertible focusing on the infotainment and climate controls.
Alt text: Detail of the door panel in a 2013 Mercedes Benz E550 Convertible showcasing the leather trim and controls.
Alt text: Mercedes Benz logo on the steering wheel of a 2013 E550 Convertible emphasizing the brand emblem and leather wrapped steering wheel.
Alt text: Close-up of the seat controls on the door panel of a 2013 Mercedes Benz E550 Convertible showcasing the power seat adjustments.
Final Verdict: A Surprisingly Enchanting Mercedes-Benz Convertible
Alt text: Front angle view of a silver 2013 Mercedes Benz E550 Convertible parked outdoors in a scenic setting.
While judging a car solely on its appearance is unwise, the 2013 E-Class Convertible‘s stunning styling is undeniably captivating. Mercedes-Benz vehicles often fall into categories of elegant, appealing, or even overly styled, but rarely “gorgeous.” The 2013 Mercedes-Benz E550 Convertible challenges this perception, joining the ranks of exceptions like the SLS AMG and second-generation CL-Class. Remarkably, the reviewer prefers this convertible over its coupe and sedan counterparts. Convertibles often face criticism for added weight and compromised driving dynamics compared to coupes. However, in the 2013 E550 Convertible, these drawbacks are overshadowed by its overall competence and undeniable charm.
Its beauty is a constant draw, and despite not possessing the razor-sharp handling of a Porsche 911, it offers its own unique brand of driving enjoyment. Imagine cruising on a winding road with the top down, the glorious V8 engine note filling the air – this encapsulates the fun and engaging experience of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz E550 Convertible. Minor annoyances like slightly confusing controls, the close windshield, and occasional rattles on rough roads are easily forgiven. The reviewer admits to being thoroughly charmed by this car, even to the point of considering it the only modern Mercedes-Benz they would personally purchase – specifically as an E550 Convertible. This enthusiasm, however, is specific to the pre-2014 facelift model, as the update’s removal of the split headlights diminishes its visual appeal in their eyes. While acknowledging sounding like an overly enthusiastic Mercedes-Benz devotee (which they are not), the 2013 E550 genuinely impressed, defying expectations and fostering an appreciation for a modern Mercedes-Benz and, surprisingly, a convertible over other body styles. It truly is that good.
