Acquiring a used Mercedes Benz E55 is often described as stepping into a world of exhilarating performance wrapped in understated luxury. As someone deeply involved in automotive diagnostics and repair, particularly with Mercedes-Benz vehicles, the allure of the E55, a model celebrated for its potent blend of power and sophistication, was irresistible. My journey began with a need for a transmission replacement shortly after purchase, as detailed in this video, leading me to Winco Auto Repair in San Francisco, a shop I can confidently recommend for their service and 90-day guarantee on the used transmission they installed. The amusing reaction to my inquiry about mileage on the used transmission aside, it prompted me to thoroughly test the guarantee, embarking on road trips to Los Angeles and Monterey, including the prestigious Pebble Beach event, alongside daily school runs. Now, with over 2500 miles clocked, I feel intimately acquainted with the character of this remarkable machine.
Unleashing the Wagnerian Motor: Performance and Driving Dynamics
In my initial impressions, I likened the E55 to a ‘Wagnerian motor’, a descriptor that only deepens with experience. Driving late at night with the sunroof open, the powerful V8 soundtrack becomes truly immersive, resonating with a visceral energy reminiscent of powerful compositions. While it may not possess the aristocratic pedigree of an Earl Howe’s Pebble Beach winning classic or the villainous mystique of Hugo Drax’s SSK, the Mercedes Benz E55 certainly commands a similar gravitas, delivering the raw thrust characteristic of Mercedes-Benz legends, perhaps only surpassed by the pre-war W25 racers.
The initial feeling of a limousine fused with a hot rod engine has solidified into a defining characteristic. The E55 is not incapable in corners, but its true essence lies in the anticipation of unleashing its formidable horsepower. The transmission, featuring a somewhat counter-intuitive left/right shift motion, becomes almost secondary to the engine’s immense torque. A mere prod of the accelerator often negates the need for downshifting, as the car effortlessly builds momentum with impressive speed. Interestingly, the transmission’s reluctance to engine brake means one must be mindful of brake usage.
The traction control system (TCS), remarkably well-calibrated for its era, allows for a degree of spirited driving. A subtle hint of friskiness is permitted before the large dash warning light gently flashes, indicating impending slippage. Unless you’re applying significant steering lock, such as when pulling out of a damp junction, the TCS intervention is far less intrusive compared to more modern, and sometimes overly zealous, systems. Disabling the TCS in a safe, empty dirt lot reveals a chassis with predictable breakaway characteristics, offering enjoyable, controllable drifts. The ease with which the E55 executes burnouts also hints at why figures like Lewis Hamilton have found themselves in trouble for similar displays of power.
Limo-Like Comfort and Practicality: A Mile-Munching Marvel
The Mercedes Benz E55 excels in its limousine-like qualities, proving to be an exceptional long-distance cruiser. It navigates freeways with sublime ease, equally comfortable at speed on open stretches or patiently enduring bumper-to-bumper traffic. The San Francisco to Los Angeles drive was noticeably less tiring in the E55 compared to other vehicles I own, a testament to its comfortable and refined nature. The rear seating is generously proportioned, offering significantly more space than not just a 3-Series, but even a 5-Series BMW of the same era. A German acquaintance aptly summarized the sentiment in Germany, noting that while the W210 E-Class offered superior interior space, it arguably sacrificed some of the driving engagement found in the E39 BMW 5-Series.
Navigating the Realities of Used Performance Car Ownership: Maintenance and Quirks
Despite its numerous virtues, owning an older performance car like the E55 inevitably involves addressing maintenance items. While steering tie rods were replaced and the car aligned, a persistent “clonk” noise remains when traversing kerbs, suggesting a potential issue with suspension or shock bushings. The financial aspect of these repairs is secondary to the inconvenience and time investment, factors that often deter many from maintaining older, more demanding vehicles. The previous owner’s sentiment, “It’s reached a point where it needs more time and money than I am ready to give it,” resonates deeply with the realities of owning a car of this age and performance caliber.
The rear headliner, a common W210 ailment, has unfortunately deteriorated further, particularly between the A and B pillars on the passenger side, exacerbated by driving with the window down.
Headlight Woes: Xenon Challenges and Visibility Concerns
Remembering my earlier comments about headlight performance, the miles driven have underscored the E55’s subpar lighting, especially on low beam. Investigation revealed that the E55 is equipped with early xenon headlights, an option for the W210 430 models and standard on the E55, later superseded by projector beam technology. Most W210s, however, utilize halogen headlights, and these systems are not interchangeable. The cost of replacement headlights, quoted at a “thousand dollars” by Winco, is significant. While splitting and replacing lenses was suggested, the potential for leaks afterwards makes this a less appealing option. For now, a polishing treatment of the existing lenses seems like the most pragmatic first step, with further updates to follow.
The Blue Smoke Incident and Lingering Oil Concerns
During a spirited driving session, pushing towards autobahn speeds, plumes of blue smoke emerged, triggering a moment of anxiety. The immediate concern was a potentially catastrophic engine issue. Thoughts raced about the safest place to park a car possibly facing imminent mechanical seizure – the pessimistic choice of a Travelodge car park versus the slightly more optimistic gas station, with Burger King offering a comforting middle ground.
After a restorative burger, fries, and root beer, braving the 103-degree heat, a check revealed stable radiator water and consistent oil levels. Gingerly resuming the journey, no further alarming symptoms appeared until an under-hood inspection in Los Angeles uncovered a minor oil leak at the front of one of the cylinder heads. While seemingly pre-existing, fresh oil on the block was also evident.
Approximately 1200 miles later, during the Pebble Beach week, a “Check Oil” warning message illuminated on the dashboard while driving over Laureles Grade. The warning cycled on and off intermittently. Despite the message, subsequent oil level checks remained normal. Online forums suggest a likely culprit is a faulty oil level sensor, a repair that unfortunately necessitates oil pan removal.
Furthermore, the temperature gauge exhibits a rather broad fluctuation between 80 and 100 degrees Celsius, a range that seems wider than ideal. Replacing the temperature sensor in another vehicle, a Bullitt Mustang, resolved a similar issue, prompting consideration of the same fix for the E55. Further forum research is warranted. Finally, rust along the sunroof lip requires investigation and attention.
Endearing Livability Despite Imperfections: The E55 Charm
These accumulated minor issues collectively illustrate why many E55s in similar condition face being broken down for parts. Yet, despite these imperfections, my overwhelming impression of the Mercedes Benz E55 remains profoundly positive. Its inherent livability and extraordinary likeability shine through. While the interior materials might initially appear understated, after 2500 miles and 132,000 on the odometer, the cabin retains a distinctly premium feel, particularly when compared back-to-back with more modern, less substantial interiors.
The exceptional comfort and effortless usability in diverse driving conditions, combined with the sheer brute force of its engine, make enduring the inevitable minor repairs a worthwhile endeavor. The Mercedes Benz E55, even with its quirks, remains a compelling and deeply enjoyable machine to own and drive.
