Mercedes-Benz R-Class W251
The 'Grand Sports Tourer' that blurred the lines between luxury saloon, estate, and SUV.
- Power
- 224 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 8.3 s
- Top speed
- 138 mph
- Est. value
- $2k–$6k
About the Mercedes-Benz R-Class W251
The Mercedes-Benz R-Class was a bold experiment in automotive packaging, marketed as a 'Grand Sports Tourer' to avoid the 'minivan' stigma. Built on the same platform as the M-Class and GL-Class, it offered a cavernous interior with three rows of seating and standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The R 320 CDI variant was particularly popular in Europe, providing the necessary torque to move its significant 2.2-tonne mass with reasonable efficiency. Despite its technical competence and S-Class levels of legroom, its ambiguous styling and high price point led to disappointing global sales.
Mercedes-Benz R-Class W251 specs
The Mercedes-Benz R-Class W251 produces 224 bhp (167 kW) and 510 Nm (376 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 8.3 seconds and has a top speed of 138 mph (222 km/h).
| Make | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|
| Model | R-Class |
| Generation | W251 |
| Trim | R 320 CDI |
| Years | 2005–2017 |
| Type | Luxury |
| Body style | MPV |
| Country | Germany |
| Original price | About $46,000 when new |
| Engine | 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,987 cc (3.0 litres) |
| Induction | Turbocharged |
| Power | 224 bhp (167 kW) at 3,800 rpm |
| Torque | 510 Nm (376 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 4,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 8.3 s |
| Top speed | 138 mph (222 km/h) |
| Transmission | 7-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive |
| Weight | 2,250 kg (4,960 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 100 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 R-Class W251 worth?
A typical Mercedes-Benz R-Class W251 is estimated to be worth $1,700 – $5,800 (about £1,300 – £4,300).
Its original price when new was about $46,000.
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 R-Class W251 rarity in CarSpot
The Mercedes-Benz R-Class W251 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 1 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 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 R-Class W251 fun facts
- The R-Class was primarily manufactured in Vance, Alabama, alongside the M-Class and GL-Class SUVs.
- Its wheelbase was actually longer than that of a standard S-Class, providing exceptional interior space for six or seven adults.
- The concept for the R-Class was first previewed by the Vision GST (Grand Sports Tourer) at the 2002 Detroit Auto Show.
