Mercedes-Benz E-Class History (Part 3): W210
The W210 Series
The Mercedes-Benz W210 Series was manufactured from 1995 through 2002
and offered a saloon or station wagon body style. With a new dramatic
styling, the wheelbase and length were made larger than its
predecessor. In 1996, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class was Motor Trend’s
Import Car of the Year.
Features of the Mercedes-Benz W210
Much more practical than its predecessors, the W210 Series was
manufactured with a 4 or, for the first time, a 6-door option. The
engine options of the practical E-Class were 2.0, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.7,
2.8, 2.8, 3.0, 3.2, 3.6, 4.2, 4.3, 5.0 or 5.5 liters with 10, 16, 18,
20 or 24, 32 Volts and 94 to 349 hp.
The transmission options were 4 or 5-speed automatic with no option for
a manual transmission, another first. In 1996, 5 and 6-speed manual
transmissions were reintroduced into the line. The manufacturer’s
cylinders were the I4, I5, I6, V6, V8, or S6. The 3rd generation
E-Class cars were assembled with a double wishbone suspension and rear
multilink system.
In 1997, Mercedes offered a sport package with 17-inch wheels, Z-rated
tires, and fog lights. In the same year, a front passenger presence
sensor was added to all models. In 1998, the 4matic all-wheel drive
system was reintroduced into the American market.
Mercedes-Benz manufactured four AMG engines for the W210 series; the
E36, E50, E60 and, in 1998, the E55. In 2000, exterior and interior
upgrades were introduced on the AMG models. The E55 was the last AMG
model that was hand built strictly at the Affalterbach, Germany plant.
The options of the AMG models included a 5-speed automatic
transmission, an Electronic Stability System (ESP), a Brake Assist
System (BAS), heated front seats, xenon HID headlamps, sport steering
wheel, leather upholstery and shift knob, and metallic paint.
The Mercedes-Benz W210 Series was assembled in Austria, Vietnam, and
Affalterbach, Bremen, Sindelfingin, and Zuffenhausen Germany.
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