The Mercedes-Benz 500E is one of the more celebrated factory hot rods to ever exist. It’s also a model that’s been in the news as of late after a record-setting sale of a model owned by none other than Jerry Seinfeld with extremely low miles. As a car that was already in demand for its coloration story with Porsche and for its classic performance car details like flared fenders and a thumping M119 V8 engine, we’re not surprised to see a high asking price on this 1993 500E listed here on eBay. Apparently used as a factory demonstrator to gauge public interest in new colors and options, the seller is asking $147,000.
The 500E’s story is one that either moves you to open your wallet or it doesn’t. Much hoopla has been made about the production process, which essentially amounted to Porsche having an assembly line that was wide enough to accommodate the significantly altered stance of the 500E. In addition, Porsche was in a bit of a slump in the early 90s and had the space to take on a project – along with a financial lifeline from Mercedes. There was really no other DNA shared in the manufacturing process, or some special sauce that was added in. However, collectors love to think of the 500E as the Mercedes that Porsche built.
As someone who owns a 1992 500E, I can tell you the story is a fun anecdote but doesn’t have much impact on the driving experience. The car is wonderful for the visual statement it makes and for the effortless thrust of an old-school V8 engine and conventional 4-speed automatic transmission. The seller points out that this 500E was dressed up in snappier interior duds to make a statement while on the automotive show circuit, especially since the model was generally continuing unchanged from the previous year aside from a slight facelift with the headlights and grill. The green upholstery was the biggest change from stock, and the factory EVO wheels were bolted on as well.
The M119 produces 326 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. The heart of the beast has connections to Mercedes’ motorsports program, used in the famed Sauber/Mercedes C9 and C11 Le Mans racers. If you simply want an eight-cylinder motor that pulls and pulls and doesn’t run out of breath, seemingly ever, the 500E is a wonderful choice. These days, a good driver-quality example reliably sells for over $30,000, but if you find a project-grade car like mine, you can spend far less before eventually spending the same amount in repairs as a “good” car would have cost. Choose wisely!
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