General description of the body (Mercedes-Benz W210 1996-2002: General information: Vehicle description)

The new Mercedes E-class model has been on sale since the end of June 1995 and owes its success primarily to the authority of its predecessor, the Mercedes passenger car of the previous series (W124), which two years ago, when the company introduced a new model qualification, began to wear an index «E».

However, the new car is better than its predecessor in many ways.

A total of more than ten engine options are presented to the buyer to choose from (with a 2.5L 5-cylinder E-class diesel engine specially supplied to the markets of Italy, Greece and Portugal).

In March 1997, the 2.8 and 3.2 L inline 6-cylinder engines were replaced by V6-cylinder units.

In the index, after the letter denoting the class, the engine displacement in cubic centimeters is indicated without the last zero. For example, the E-230 has a 2295cc engine³. Letter «D» stands for «diesel engine».

The bold decision was twice rewarded. The new E-Class has risen to the same level with racing cars. It forced out the much sought-after Mercedes C-Class from the German market. And in the very first year of the start of serial production (1996) ranked seventh in demand among such popular models as VW, Opel and Audi.

The new models have an unconventional Mercedes appearance, with four round headlights and a silhouette that is more characteristic of a coupe than an executive sedan. Slightly larger than its predecessors, the new E-Class looks squatter, longer.

The level of passive safety in the new E-class is very high. The complex structure of the body is designed to guarantee optimal deformation when hitting an obstacle. Optionally, the car can be equipped with side airbags for the driver and the passenger sitting next to him.

Along with eight engine models, the buyer is offered three body options - Classic, Elegance and Avantgarde, 15 paint colors and 12 samples of interior materials.

The main differences between the body configuration options are in the interior trim, as well as in decorative elements, such as moldings. Any of the engines is installed in all body configurations.

Many of the natural materials in E-Class vehicles have been replaced with synthetic materials that are easily recyclable.

Strong and lightweight materials, an elegant streamlined shape and, finally, effective corrosion protection are the symbol of a reliable, safe and durable vehicle.