Mercedes-Benz 500 E W124
The iron fist in a velvet glove, hand-built by Porsche.
- Power
- 326 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 5.5 s
- Top speed
- 155 mph
- Est. value
- $35k–$160k
About the Mercedes-Benz 500 E W124
The 500 E is the result of a legendary collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and Porsche, designed to challenge the BMW M5. Each car was hand-assembled at Porsche's Rossle-Bau plant in Zuffenhausen, a process that took 18 days per vehicle due to the widened bodywork not fitting on the standard Mercedes production line. It features the M119 V8 from the 500 SL, modified suspension, and flared wheel arches that subtly hint at its performance. Known for its exceptional build quality and 'over-engineered' feel, it remains one of the most respected executive expresses of the 1990s.
Mercedes-Benz 500 E W124 specs
The Mercedes-Benz 500 E W124 produces 326 bhp (243 kW) and 480 Nm (354 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 5.5 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
| Make | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|
| Model | 500 E |
| Generation | W124 |
| Trim | 500 E |
| Years | 1990–1995 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | Germany |
| Production | About 10,479 built |
| Original price | About $82,000 when new |
| Engine | 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,973 cc (5.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 326 bhp (243 kW) at 5,700 rpm |
| Torque | 480 Nm (354 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 5.5 s |
| Top speed | 155 mph (250 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,700 kg (3,748 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 192 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Mercedes-Benz 500 E W124 worth?
A typical Mercedes-Benz 500 E W124 is estimated to be worth $35,000 – $160,000 (about £26,000 – £119,000).
Its original price when new was about $82,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Mercedes-Benz 500 E W124 rarity in CarSpot
The Mercedes-Benz 500 E W124 is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 50 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Mercedes-Benz 500 E W124 fun facts
- Because the widened body was too large for the Sindelfingen assembly line, cars were transported back and forth between Mercedes and Porsche factories four times during production.
- The 500 E was strictly a four-seater, as the large transmission tunnel and rear differential housing required a unique rear bench with a central storage console.
- Despite its performance, the 500 E was so understated that it was often mistaken for a standard W124 taxi, earning it the nickname 'The Wolf in Sheep's Clothing'.
