Flared Fender Sedan: 1993 Mercedes-Benz 500E

A few weeks ago, I shared how my own 1992 Mercedes-Benz 500E was potentially going up for sale. And, it might still be. However, when I see one come up for sale, and my eyes see those wildly flared fenders, I start having doubts. This 1993 500E listed here on eBay is listed with minimal details, but beyond its limited production and storied assembly process, the mileage is the most compelling detail: just over 65,000 original miles. The seller has listed it with a Buy-It-Now of $104,990, and bidding is just over $10,000 at the moment.

This is the angle that gets me, every time: from the quarter panel looking down the sides of the car, where you see just how dramatic the fender flares are. Most drivers on the road wouldn’t notice it, but for those of us who know the car’s story, you’re immediately drawn to the extended body panels. There are a few things to note about this car right off the bat, which includes the aftermarket tail lights and the AMG-style monoblock wheels. They may be authentic, but you’d have to verify that by taking the wheel off the car and checking for the appropriate stampings.

This car is nearly identical to mine, down to the silver leather interior. The interior of these cars is generally quite durable, but you can still tell when a W124 is low mileage. The carpets are clean, the woodgrain trim shines like new, and the armrest doesn’t show years’ worth of elbows rubbing against it. However, even as the 500E continues to grow in popularity with collectors, the seller’s Buy-It-Now may still be ambitious. Recent sales with cars showing mileage between 50K and 70K miles have reached close to $90,000 and $80,000. So, perhaps the seller is hoping to collect a similar price after eBay takes its fees.

The real appeal of the 500E (and why I want to give mine a chance) is its hot rod sedan personality. This is not a car that handles particularly well, but if you want to light up the tires and generate a smoke show at the traffic light, well – this car will do it. The M119 V8 produces 326 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque, all channeled through a basic 4-speed automatic transmission. With the current bid price and the auction getting near its conclusion, the seller is likely hoping for an offer to come in post-sale. Personally, I’d throw the stock tail lamps back on and try again if it doesn’t make its number this time around.