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1994model
Mercedes-Benz W124 E500 Limited
Based on my ownership experience with the E500 in Austria, I spent 15 years searching for another E500 in excellent condition after returning to Japan. And finally, after all these years, I found this exquisite E500 Limited, beautifully matured! Its exceptional condition is a testament to the meticulous care it received over two decades, as evidenced by the detailed maintenance records, elevating its mileage to a source of pride. This car, a lifetime treasure, stirs my heart with the arrival of the ultimate Mercedes-Benz that I want to cherish forever!
Keeping a beloved vehicle for many years, treating it like a member of the family, adds depth to life and naturally elevates the car to the realm of classics. Through regular updates and maintenance, not just replacing worn-out parts but ensuring that it consistently performs at its best, the driver can truly savor the car’s inherent qualities on the Autobahn. Even as the car gains the patina of history, when it has been cherished and meticulously maintained, it not only remains the same as when it was delivered, but it evolves into a realm of maturity, exuding a unique aura, including the history of journeys taken.
The owner, embodying the German approach to cars through life experiences, has demonstrated this perfectly. They have focused intensely on how well the car has been maintained and how crucial elements have been updated, searching all over Japan for 15 years to find the ideal vehicle. Despite the twists and turns, they have thoroughly enjoyed a blissful time with the magnificent E500 Limited. However, life stages change for everyone. Thus, they have “partially” made the decision to let go of this exceptional vehicle, leading to this interview request.
The E500, often described as “the Mercedes-Benz made by Porsche” due to its enchanting double-name allure, commands respect from anyone, not just enthusiasts, owing to its captivating appearance. In this presentation, delving into its essential developmental history and the owner’s dedication to the ultimate extent, I will convey the owner’s sentiments based on detailed research from international sources and a three-hour interview. Although it’s a lengthy read, if you are genuinely searching for an outstanding E500, please take your time and read on until the end.
The internal development code at Porsche was "Porsche Type 2758". Despite its tremendous power, it maintains a graceful and wide-bodied appearance. Its exterior features, such as wide fenders, are incredibly dynamic yet filled with luxury. While not flashy, it captivates the eye the moment you see it! This is the unique background story of the birth of the E500.
“Mercedes-Benz Type 2758,” derived from the R129 SL500, a 4,973cc aluminum block DOHC 32-valve V8 engine, was intended to create a super saloon with tremendous power fitted into the body of the W124 midsize class. Despite its commanding power, the car didn’t flaunt extravagance; its wide fenders and dynamic appearance were subtly blended with a sense of luxury, making it a vehicle that captured the observer’s attention instantly. This unique specification aimed to create an unprecedented high-performance saloon for enthusiasts, countering the introduction of the BMW E34 M5. Mercedes-Benz lacked a model in the midsize super sedan segment at the time, making this venture a response to the demand for a spiritual successor to the historic super saloons like the 1968 300SEL 6.3 and the 1975 450SEL 6.9.
In the late 1980s, Mercedes-Benz’s engineering department was busy developing the new third-generation S-Class (W140), leaving them with little capacity for this new project. Consequently, they approached Porsche for development services. In 1988, Porsche accepted this development contract from Daimler-Benz and began work at their Untertürkheim facility on the outskirts of Stuttgart. The task included redesigning the base W124 chassis and developing prototype cars. Porsche named this development code “Porsche Type 2758” and initiated the project under the leadership of project manager Michael Hershauer and prototype manager Michael Meinicke.
Practically, the chassis of the W124 was manually disassembled and modified. Fourteen prototypes were handmade. Using the expertise gained, newly designed body shell parts, including wide fenders, and improved series parts were utilized. The 15th prototype was crafted as a presentation/demo car. To accommodate the 4,973cc aluminum block DOHC 32-valve V8 engine, transmission, and drivetrain derived from the 500 SL, the chassis underwent strengthening and widening. The front and rear fenders were extended by 56mm, the ride height was lowered by 23mm to lower the center of gravity, and the battery was moved to the right rear of the luggage compartment to improve weight distribution. Brake and exhaust systems were significantly modified, and various improvements, such as ensuring ample air intake through gaps surrounding the two headlights for combustion, were made. This prototype, born from Porsche’s ideas that accounted for 90 percent of the development share, impressed Mercedes-Benz executives during Porsche’s presentation, encouraging them to proceed with mass-producing the E500!
Initially, Mercedes-Benz planned to manufacture the new E500 on their W124 assembly line in Sindelfingen. However, the widened track and broader fenders meant that it couldn’t fit within the existing line. Daimler-Benz then asked Porsche to handle the assembly.
In the late 1980s, Porsche was still feeling the impact of the high German Mark and the global economic downturn. The cooperation between the two major Stuttgart-based car manufacturers couldn’t have been better timed. Thus, a historic deal between Mercedes and Porsche was struck. Consequently, the E500 was assembled at Porsche’s secondary factory in Zuffenhausen (Rössle-Bau).
This contract was significant for Porsche, which, at the time, typically produced 10 cars per day. However, to meet Daimler-Benz’s requirements and the demand for the E500, Porsche increased production to 20 cars per day after a brief period of effort and process improvements.
The production process involved multiple trips between Daimler-Benz’s Sindelfingen plant and Porsche’s Zuffenhausen (Rössle-Bau) secondary factory. Mercedes-Benz supplied body parts from Sindelfingen to Zuffenhausen. Porsche’s team assembled these parts, including their proprietary components like the distinctive front fenders, into the body. The assembled body returned to Sindelfingen for rust prevention and painting before being sent back to Zuffenhausen for final assembly and engine installation. Each car, transported on a rolling platform, was manually pushed through Porsche’s facility. The process, although far from efficient, showcased the craftsmanship involved and the unique approach compared to contemporary car production. It took over 18 days to complete one car using this method, making it a far cry from the processes employed in modern automobile production.
While the production stages were not efficient by any means, both Daimler-Benz and Porsche shared the major portions of the E500’s design, development, modification, and production. The result was the creation of 10,479 units of the E500, which became the epitome of post-war Mercedes-Benz quality.
Unveiled at the 1990 Paris Motor Show, the E500 garnered worldwide attention. As a high-end touring saloon, it combined comfort with the raging performance of a sports car. It was officially launched in spring 1991.
However, due to its exceptionally high performance, European buyers had to agree not to use it for the Polish invasion.
Although the E500 underwent minimal changes, it was referred to as the “500 E” until the 1993 model year. From the 1994 model year, after a facelift, it was renamed “E 500”. Equipped with a 4-speed automatic gearbox in the later years (1994 onwards), it boasted a formidable performance with a maximum output of 325PS at 5600rpm and a torque of 49kg·m. It could accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 6.1 seconds and reach a top speed of 250km/h (limited), showcasing its impressive performance, which remains relevant even in modern times.
However, above all else, the fact that Porsche managed to create such a perfect design, including the distinctive fender shaping, without the aid of CAD data over 30 years ago is remarkable. Considering the manual craftsmanship involved, the back-and-forth transportation between factories, and the hand-built nature of the vehicle, it’s understandable why this car was a non-profit project for Daimler-Benz. For Mercedes-Benz, this car was more of a statement to the automotive industry than a profit-making venture. Its charisma, born from the unique synergy between Mercedes-Benz and Porsche, including its background story, makes it a captivating vehicle that continues to grip the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide.
During their stay in Austria, the owner was completely captivated by the allure of the E500. Upon returning to Japan, for a remarkable 15 years, the owner diligently searched nationwide for a well-maintained E500 with a documented history. The 1994 E500 Limited they eventually found, backed by maintenance records spanning two decades, has entered a realm of maturity and refinement. This car represents the culmination of their quest for a top-quality vehicle, as evidenced by its meticulous 20-year maintenance history.
From a young age, a passionate car enthusiast…! The current owner, who has experienced several discontinued domestic cars, first encountered Mercedes-Benz when they were assigned to Austria for work. Eager to drive a Mercedes-Benz in Europe, they purchased the W124 E260, which marked their introduction to the world of Mercedes-Benz.
Already having driven over 100,000 kilometers, the owner acquired a meticulously maintained unit from a bank executive. They traveled as a family on the Autobahn, where the Mercedes-Benz showcased its incredible stability, hugging the road at high speeds. The owner was deeply impressed by the unique car culture in Europe, treating cars like family, meticulously updating and maintaining them. Having high mileage became a source of pride in this car culture.
Later, the owner switched to the W140 S500 LWB, fully embracing the Mercedes-Benz brand. While receiving regular maintenance at Vienna’s “Wienerwald” dealership, the top master engineer suggested, “If you’re going to drive, drive the E500.” Introduced to a 1994 final model E500 with around 25,000 kilometers on the odometer, the owner was amazed. It was unlike any other Mercedes-Benz they had driven before! The acceleration was breathtaking, and it boasted incredible stability at high speeds. Despite its massive body, weighing almost 1 ton at the front axle and 1.7 tons overall, it handled the Austrian mountainous terrain with grace and stability. The owner was captivated by its exceptional handling and enjoyed driving the E500 in Europe for three years.
Upon returning home to Japan, the owner, now deeply attached to this 1994 final model E500, personally exported it from Austria. It passed the customs inspection in Japan, obtained a license plate, and was cherished as a lifelong companion. However, after about a year, a friend who had been searching for a well-maintained E500 for seven years begged the owner to sell it. Overwhelmed by the friend’s passion, the owner reluctantly let it go.
The joy of passing it on to someone who had been passionately searching for it was overshadowed by a profound sense of emptiness and impatience that followed. The desire to drive the E500 again overwhelmed them immediately after parting with it. Despite the car being several decades old, the owner believed that mileage was irrelevant; what truly mattered was how well it had been updated and maintained. And so, the search for the next E500 began immediately after selling the previous one.
Over the course of 15 years…
The owner, who often jokes, “I’ve seen E500s all over Japan…” dedicated their free time during family trips and work travels to visit car dealerships nationwide. Despite this 15-year-long quest, finding the perfect E500 proved elusive. Many E500s they encountered had either disappointing performance upon test drives, despite seemingly low mileage, or looked good superficially but lacked essential maintenance.
However, one fateful day, around the transition from the Heisei era to the Reiwa era, they stumbled upon a 1994 final model E500 Limited. This particular E500 had been imported as a used car in 2000, meticulously maintained by a professional mechanic who was its second owner in Japan. The detailed maintenance records left by this professional mechanic (link provided below) indicated the exceptional care and attention given to this vehicle. Upon test driving, the owner was immediately impressed by its stability and decided, “This is it!” after 15 years of searching.
Once again in possession of a 1994 final model E500, this time it was a Limited model with updated interior and a slightly lowered suspension. The owner looked forward to enjoying it to the fullest, but fate had other plans. They were assigned to another overseas posting…
Reluctantly, the car was entrusted to a specialist import car dealership for thorough maintenance, including regular engine starts and oil changes, while the owner worked abroad. Four years later…
Finally relieved from their responsibilities, the owner returned home. Upon their return, they were reunited with the E500 Limited after four long years. However, due to health issues developed during their overseas assignment, they could no longer drive. A deeply regrettable situation that continues to this day…
Going back in time a bit, the owner, deeply attached to cars, had purchased a W124 E60 AMG without proper documentation before encountering the E500 Limited. Though they had hoped to use the rare AMG, it never saw road use. Instead, its aerodynamic parts (front bumper, side skirts, rear bumper) and Brembo brake system were transferred to the E500 Limited, creating a truly captivating appearance reminiscent of the W124 E60 AMG.
Although currently registered as temporarily inactive due to the owner’s inability to drive, the car is in excellent condition, aside from a minor issue: there’s a liquid crystal leak on the lower third of the digital temperature display on the meter cluster.
However, a replacement meter cluster with AMG white meters, shown in the final photos, is included. Additionally, new parts such as the wood-and-leather combination AMG steering wheel and complete set of door weather strips are also included…
Apart from the LCD issue, the car runs beautifully with no other problems, has no accident history, and the air conditioning works perfectly… It also comes with the original registration document case, spare key, and bullet key…
And…
The most remarkable feature of this vehicle…
The detailed maintenance records, spanning a total of 16 pages and 320 items, meticulously maintained from the first Japanese owner in 2000 to the professional mechanic (second owner) until 2015, and continuing under the current owner’s care, can be viewed here:
Relaying from the owner’s experience with a well-maintained E500 in the authentic European setting, it was a transition to a vehicle that truly captured their vision…
This owner’s experience has elevated a car from one among many to the one and only, a unique existence in every sense. That’s how I felt during the interview…
For those searching for a pristine E500, this car might be the one that seems impossible to find – the kind you have to wait for, an encounter that feels destined…
For more details, please check the end-of-book photos and edited videos…
"1994 Mercedes-Benz E500 Limited... Post-Interview Notes..."
In the 1994 model year, Mercedes-Benz introduced the E 500 Limited for the first time… Originally, production was planned for a limited run of 500 units, but due to the significant market demand, a total of 951 units were actually produced… The vehicle I am introducing today is one of those units…
Along with the engine number and transmission number in the maintenance records of this particular vehicle, please take a look at the data for this unit.
(Here is the link to the Dropbox)
The E 500 Limited is designated with the code “958” on the data card… Its specific features include mottled-color leather patterns applied to the center inserts of the front and rear seats, steering wheel, and gear shift lever, special interior wood accents on the dashboard, doors, front and rear center consoles, 17-inch EVO-II alloy wheels, a slightly lowered ride height compared to the regular E 500 model, and an owner’s manual package with leather covers matching the seat inserts… and so on.
Among the E500 models, the Limited is the rarest and most valuable presence…
After searching for many years and finally encountering it with deep affection… it wouldn’t do justice to the car to just keep it in the garage because it couldn’t be driven anymore… Triggered by the “changes in life stages” that everyone experiences, and as the days of simply gazing at it in the garage gradually increased, the owner decided to part with it with a “heart-wrenching decision”…
Well… to be precise, the owner had “decided to make the decision,” and I believe they will truly make the decision for the first time when the next sincere owner appears…
Based on the experience of owning an E500 in Austria, I have been searching for another E500 in good condition for 15 years since returning to Japan... This exquisite E500 Limited has matured through such a journey! With over 20 years of extremely detailed maintenance records, it has transformed into a vehicle boasting impressive mileage...! My heart is moved by the arrival of the ultimate Mercedes-Benz that I want to keep driving for a lifetime...!
The owner’s sentiments truly make this vehicle remarkable… Please come to Nagano Prefecture for an awe-inspiring viewing experience…!
This very splendid "1994 Mercedes-Benz W124 E500 Limited" is currently located in Nagano Prefecture.
As this vehicle is being sold in a private transaction, there are no consumption tax or additional fees required. Since it is a deregistered vehicle, only the recycling deposit needs to be settled. The transportation from the owner’s garage in Nagano Prefecture to the buyer’s location needs to be arranged by the purchaser. Regarding the transport of the classic car, the author’s company can handle it as well, so please let us know if you are interested.
[Regarding Inquiries…]
This vehicle listed on this page is featured on the cross-border EC site for classic cars and collectible cars, “Estate Sale®︎ Supremacy.”
What is “Supremacy” in Estate Sale…
Estate Sale®︎ Supremacy is the Japanese version of the North American culture of estate sales, where the owner’s heartfelt car is introduced through interviews and written manuscripts. Unlike selling items at a low price without leaving any trace of culture or passing down to the next generation, Estate Sale®︎ Supremacy earnestly expresses the owner’s feelings. We guide and mediate, ensuring that memories are firmly retained in the heart and passed on to the next generation.
We conducted detailed interviews with the current owner, including past maintenance records and repair history. If there is a significant accident history or if the current owner’s ownership history is extremely short and details are unknown, we decline the interview and make efforts to deliver peace of mind to customers as much as possible.
This article was written based on an interview with the owner and a passenger seat test drive, conducted under clear skies for about 4 hours from 9:30 AM on October 5, 2023. Please note that due to the limited time, the description of the vehicle’s condition may not be 100% accurate. Furthermore, all contents of the article were not backed up with evidence. Please be aware that comments on the condition, etc., are subjective and based on the author’s perspective, including weather and environmental conditions at the time of the interview.
For inquiries about the listed vehicle or to schedule an on-site inspection, please contact us from the bottom of this page. Since this is a transaction between individuals, on-site inspections will only be allowed for customers who are considering the purchase as a “premise.”
Your understanding and consideration are greatly appreciated.
The detailed condition of the vehicle is described in each photo.
On the top slide you will find 50 attractive photos of the vehicle! Please click on a photo to view it with its description. Click outside the picture to return to the page.
SPEC
Length
4750mm
Width
1790mm
Height
1410mm
Weight
1700kg
Exhibit location
Japan,Nagano
