Mercedes-Benz W124 500E Brilliant Silver Metallic Climate Checkbook (1992)

Vehicle description

In September 1990, the automotive world in Zuffenhausen was turned upside down. Where models like the Porsche 911 are usually produced, sedans with a star on the hood suddenly roll off the production line. The reason for this curiosity is a unique cooperation between Porsche and Mercedes-Benz: Since the development department of the Sindelfingen was fully occupied with the development of the new S-Class at the end of the 80s, the company commissioned Porsche in 1989 without further ado with the redesign of the W-124 chassis, in which the 5.0-liter V8 engine from the then new SL was to be planted for the new top model 500E. The result of this unique symbiosis of German engineering is presented at the Paris Motor Show in October 1990: The new top model of the 124 series is called the 500E, and is initially hardly distinguishable from its sister models. Only at second glance are details such as the widened fenders, the lowered body and the modified front apron recognizable. As inconspicuous as the sedan is, the driving performance is still impressive 30 years later: The four-valve V8 engine delivers an impressive 326 hp and transports the 500E to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds – the top speed is limited to 250 km/h under the banner of the "Gentlemen's Agreement". But the exclusivity has its price: With around 135,000 DM, customers have to put almost three times as much on the table for the 500E compared to a conventional 300E of the 124 series. From 1993, the top model undergoes the facelift of the series, and follows the nomenclature of the new E-Class with the designation E500. A total of around 10,500 units were produced by the time it was discontinued in 1995. Due to the low number of production and the unique history, the 500E quickly gained cult status, and is today one of the most sought-after modern classics from Mercedes-Benz.

This auction now offers the rare opportunity to bid for a Mercedes-Benz 500E of the 124 model series. The sedan with the vehicle identification number 1B768186 rolled off the assembly line at Porsche in Zuffenhausen in 1992, and was registered to its first owner in May of the same year. The car is an import from Switzerland, and has a total of two vehicle owners in its history. The history of the 500E can be partially traced from the incomplete checkbook. Due to a fresh general inspection, there are no TüV visits for the time being, and an H approval is also given. In addition, a valuation report is not available, the seller attests to the car "Matching Numbers". In total, the vehicle comes with two keys, an accident is excluded in the current holding period.

As a real "wolf in sheep's clothing", the 500E is painted in the inconspicuous colour "brilliant silver metallic". According to the seller, the paintwork has been renewed in the area of the bumpers, so that they present themselves in excellent condition. But also on the rest of the body of the Mercedes no complaints can be detected: The paint has apparently no defects, and also seals, radiator fins and chrome applications make a very neat impression.

The car is equipped with 16" series aluminum rims of the 124 series, which also have no damage, and are equipped with New Bridgestone tires. The brakes are also in good condition, according to the seller. There are no defects or modifications in the area of body and chassis. The car is currently in accident-free condition.

After 30 years, the blue interior of the 500E is also unimpressed by the ravages of time: the seats covered with perforated leather show no obvious damage either in the rear or on the driver's and front passenger's side, and have apparently always been treated with care. The centre console also has a very well-groomed appearance: all switches and buttons do not appear worn out, and the interior is also spared the cracks in the wood application known for the 124 series. A special highlight in the unmodified interior is the original Becker Mexico radio, which gives the center console a contemporary appearance. Other optional extras on the 500E include power steering, central locking, power windows, air conditioning and ABS.

Mercedes enthusiasts appreciate the clear, objective instruments of the 124 model series: all the information relevant to the driver can be extracted from three round instruments. The six-digit speedometer shows a total mileage of 181,708km, which can be partially traced via the incomplete checkbook. According to the information, all instruments work flawlessly.

The widened engine compartment is the heart of the 500E: the V8 engine unit and the built-in four-speed automatic transmission come from the 500 SL of the 129 series. The engine has a displacement of 5.0 liters and makes a whopping 326 hp. The 500E recently received its last service at a mileage of 181,000km. The only repair carried out by the seller is the renewal of the steering lock. There are no defects in the engine and technology of the sedan, so that no further work is currently pending.

The underbody of the car, which is in very good condition, is also carefree.

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