-
Hi Guest !
Welcome to the 500Eboard forum.
Since its founding in late 2008, 500Eboard has become the leading resource on the Internet for all things related to the Mercedes-Benz 500E and E500. In recent years, we have also expanded to include the 400E and E420 models, which are directly related to the 500E/E500.
We invite you to browse and take advantage of the information and resources here on the site. If you find helpful information, please register for full membership, and you'll find even more resources available. Feel free to ask questions, and make liberal use of the "Search" function to find answers.
We hope you will become an active contributor to the community!
Sincerely,
500Eboard Management
OWNER - Maui
- Thread starter Maui
- Start date
IIRC, the original 4Matic transfer cases were problematic. The factory rebuilts are supposed to be much better. I'd only consider one if there's a documented factory replacement. Even then, you're still stuck with the M103 motor, which I'm not crazy about. A late 124 with ASR is a good alternative. If you must have Mercedes AWD, I'd look for newer model. The later 4Matics are much better, AFAIK.
There's a white California/Oregon/Texas one, with ASR and cold-weather package, with the top end & engine compartment being rebuilt in the Houston area right now !!
Yes, but I believe the current owner is reluctant to let go of her prized wagon, and if she ever did, I think someone else (coughgsxrcough) already called "dibs".
There was a nice Imperial Red wagon in SoCal a few months ago, pretty cheap too IIRC ($<$3k?). Keep looking, you'll find one eventually.
I've got a good buddy in Lake Oswego whose wife has had a white 1991 4MATIC wagon for many many years. The transfer case has given then nothing but problems. MBI could tell you some serious tales about that car. My friend Mark used to tell me the stories (this was back 10-12 years ago) and coupled with other stuff I heard, I wouldn't go near one, ever.
The transfer case seals are a poor design and it's a major ordeal to remove and fix properly. I also don't think they get as good of mileage as regular 2WD 124 wagons. Seriously, the M104 in the 1993-1995 W124 wagon is going to give you 40 more ponies and more torque than the M103 models (sorry 400Eric), and the ASR system will also hold you in good stead while not killing your mileage, or pocketbook with its mechanical complexity.
The 4MATIC system as implemented on the W210 chassis was a totally different design and is relatively trouble-free in comparison to the W124. A late ASR wagon is the way to go. Especially a white one, with black leather with ASR and the MB factory cold weather package. With Rainbow speakers in the dashboard.
The transfer case seals are a poor design and it's a major ordeal to remove and fix properly. I also don't think they get as good of mileage as regular 2WD 124 wagons. Seriously, the M104 in the 1993-1995 W124 wagon is going to give you 40 more ponies and more torque than the M103 models (sorry 400Eric), and the ASR system will also hold you in good stead while not killing your mileage, or pocketbook with its mechanical complexity.
The 4MATIC system as implemented on the W210 chassis was a totally different design and is relatively trouble-free in comparison to the W124. A late ASR wagon is the way to go. Especially a white one, with black leather with ASR and the MB factory cold weather package. With Rainbow speakers in the dashboard.
For what it's worth I attended a local MB club event today at Beaverton Mercedes. The event was set up to allow members to see and drive the new CLA. The car drove nicely and did not have the normal torque steer feel of a front wheel drive car. It is quite obvious that this is not a high dollar car but it was nice none the less. The seats are vinyl but nice fitting. The instruments are nicely laid out and had the familiar MB look and feel. The car I drove was the CLA250 with nav, rear camera and few other upgrades with a price tag of about $42,000. The nav or command center was operated with a joystick on the center console. Visibility could be better in my opinion. It was not a fast car by any standard but plenty of power for an everyday commuter. If I was in the market I would consider it, but I'd probably wait a couple years for the bugs to work out. I understand that MB is giving the dealers $1000 for each car for customer care in case of dissatisfaction. I'm not sure what that tells you. The inventory specialist took each us out for the test drives, so there was no sales pressure or even a hint of "if I could would you". They also provided hors d'oeuvres and wine for the club members. It was nice to see some the folks I've friended through the club. Not sure if Gerry knows Nils Jensen? My wife and I had a great time with Nils and his wife last summer in Victoria. I understand, but have not seen, that Nils has a nice 190SL. Always fun to hang out with other MB enthusiasts. I'm sorry to see Allen Stephens steeping down as local president. In my short time in the club I'd say he was done a great job.
The club members that know me and know what an E500E is were disappointed that I drove the SL instead of the 500E. I'd say the 500E is a hit with the locals.
The club members that know me and know what an E500E is were disappointed that I drove the SL instead of the 500E. I'd say the 500E is a hit with the locals.
I never really did anything, ever, with the MB club in Portland, though I joined MBCA back in 1998. Back in the late 90s and throughout the early-mid 2000s, it was an older crowd that I didn't know well. My friends were the younger guys like Allen, who stepped in to run things just after I left Portland.
I recently stepped down myself as MBCA Houston section president -- it's a big job, and unfortunately with my work/travel schedule, and family commitments, and a lack of a strong board, it was a big challenge for me. I never ran for the position - it was handed to me, and I took it only very reluctantly. Sounds like the Portland club has a great and active board of directors, which is cool to see. We just elected a new board here in Houston a couple of weekends ago, comprised mainly of past presidents and board members, and I think they have a dedicated group of folks again to get things back into good shape and ramped up.
I don't know Nils ... know the name, but not the man. Allen .. he's good people. I actually sold him my 450SEL 6.9 back in about 2003 or so.
Cheers,
Gerry
I recently stepped down myself as MBCA Houston section president -- it's a big job, and unfortunately with my work/travel schedule, and family commitments, and a lack of a strong board, it was a big challenge for me. I never ran for the position - it was handed to me, and I took it only very reluctantly. Sounds like the Portland club has a great and active board of directors, which is cool to see. We just elected a new board here in Houston a couple of weekends ago, comprised mainly of past presidents and board members, and I think they have a dedicated group of folks again to get things back into good shape and ramped up.
I don't know Nils ... know the name, but not the man. Allen .. he's good people. I actually sold him my 450SEL 6.9 back in about 2003 or so.
Cheers,
Gerry
Allen told me that years back he had purchased a 500E without telling his wife and kept it hidden in a friends shop for several months until someone accidentally said something to him about it in front of his wife.
I've purchased most of my toys unbeknownst to my wife. She's a keeper and has never complained about it. She knows that's just the way it is. We will celebrate 30 years of marriage next July and probably 40 cars, most of which were unbeknownst. I provide her with a comfortable lifestyle and she puts up with my toys.
Yup, that's them! Please let us know how the upgrade turns out.
FYI, the small plastic clips which attach the leather covers to the pads are nowhere to be found in the EPC. It appears the original clips (whatever the part numbers may have been) are NLA, but there is a replacement clip which is functionally equivalent. The original clips are quite tough and usually don't break. If you end up needing any, the part number is 140-988-37-78. I was able to fully disassemble the seats without breaking any of them.
FYI, the small plastic clips which attach the leather covers to the pads are nowhere to be found in the EPC. It appears the original clips (whatever the part numbers may have been) are NLA, but there is a replacement clip which is functionally equivalent. The original clips are quite tough and usually don't break. If you end up needing any, the part number is 140-988-37-78. I was able to fully disassemble the seats without breaking any of them.
Yup, that's them! Please let us know how the upgrade turns out.
FYI, the small plastic clips which attach the leather covers to the pads are nowhere to be found in the EPC. It appears the original clips (whatever the part numbers may have been) are NLA, but there is a replacement clip which is functionally equivalent. The original clips are quite tough and usually don't break. If you end up needing any, the part number is 140-988-37-78. I was able to fully disassemble the seats without breaking any of them.
I'm hoping Guy can work out those details when he installs them for me. I will encourage him to try and salvage the clips.
You are absolutely right. This is exactly what I think when when I spend time with my 036. I always say it is a not a car but piece of art that drives. Seems like all 036 people are so addicted to E500E.
P.S. I think you should add wipers to make it complete. Also looks like you need to renew your grille inserts that I have for sale here
Taking the car in tomorrow to get these bad boys installed. I have to leave the car for a couple days. Not sure how I will live without it an I have to take public transportation home from a very sketchy part of town. I'm hoping my CCW doesn't come in handy.
Wow, they actually let people carry concealed in Portland now? Back in the day, Chief Kroeker (ex LAPD chief) didn't allow CCW permits. You had to go to the MultCo Sheriff, and even he was not inclined to issue them unless you had a good reason to.
Texas is very different, LOL. They pretty much LIKE you to carry concealed here
(with a permit of course). In fact, open carry is illegal in the Republic of Texas. I remember about the time we moved from Portland, there were open-carry fanatics carrying on the MAX, and getting busted into jail on false charges for it (it was 100% legal to do so). Idiot cops who didn't know their own state law.I'd just bag a big ol' yellow Broadway Cab and save yourself the hassle. 503-227-1234. Still remember the phone number, LOL ! Before you bail, you should head on over to Por Que No? on N. Mississippi St. for some grubbin' Mexican food.
Sooo, now when you gaze upon your SL, what is your rating on its visual appeal?
Btw, the 036 design is timeless. The first time I first saw a picture of the 036, I literally said "Holy crap" out loud while at work and with a bunch of people staring back at me afterwards with question mark faces...that was a good day.
Of course I think the R230 is the most beautiful SL ever made. The SL looks like a sports car and you know there is no hiding that fact.
The 500E is like, WTF, is it a sedan or race car? People hardly even notice the 500E but they look at the SL like you're a billionaire. I would liken the 500E to be a redneck's mercedes (no offense intended).
I deleted the first pic post because it was twisted. Guy did a great job and was right on budget. Guy was very complimentary of the leather condition. He said the leather was in excellent condition.
Better description.
Ok, just for shits and giggles "I am convinced that the W124 E500E is one of the most beautiful cars", that puts the 036 in the category of all cars, so my initial question was targeting the visual aspects between both cars, regardless of their identity.
The SL does make a $ statement...but the 036 makes the
.gif "OMG :omg:")
statement. In my neck of the woods, I see just about any car money can buy over and over and over...but when I see an 036 on the road, I start to drool and I even own one the bloody things.
My cars are like my kids. I would never compare them. 
In my opinion the R230 is the best looking SL ever made especially in a red wrapper and mushroom interior.
There is something about cruising down the highway with the top down.
I have seen two 036 cars in person other then mine. A silver one was for sale in Vancouver and I test drove it. The car was okay, but definitely not in as good condition as mine. The other was a 199 car at one of the local MB events. I look for them all the time, but with only three that I know of in the area they are not a common sight. I agree that it has that OMG appeal, at least to me.
In my opinion the R230 is the best looking SL ever made especially in a red wrapper and mushroom interior.
There is something about cruising down the highway with the top down. I have seen two 036 cars in person other then mine. A silver one was for sale in Vancouver and I test drove it. The car was okay, but definitely not in as good condition as mine. The other was a 199 car at one of the local MB events. I look for them all the time, but with only three that I know of in the area they are not a common sight. I agree that it has that OMG appeal, at least to me.
Attachments
Last edited:
In the tradition, very much so. In the design, the 036 has a lot more brute and sex appeal...a great mix for a car.
Fair enough.
Very true and chick approved.
P.S.To Gerry,
It was approved by my friends young and hot wife. In fact, when she looked at the 500E and the way I pulled in a parking lot she said : "car looks sort of arrogant and brutal, the way it rolls by, the way front end and flared fenders made, and added: "overall is intimidating appearance". However, that young lady hates old cars and recognizes only 2011 and newer, so that was independent opinion from person who is not addicted to 036.
I wish I knew I could get one for $361. I bought a good condition bio-degradable type.
That's a steal ! Where from ?:?
The price just dropped Jan-1. It had been much higher last year.
Went out last night to enjoy cigars with a few close friends. A cigar get together is known as a "herf" and includes cigars, drinks and great conversation.
Driving home last night around 11:30 pm, I swear the 500E felt quicker and more responsive than ever and it seems like I'm getting better gas mileage. I think it's the combination of swapping in the '92 LH module and the new upper harness. The car felt considerably quicker last night (for the record, I drank water the whole night due to current diet).
Driving home last night around 11:30 pm, I swear the 500E felt quicker and more responsive than ever and it seems like I'm getting better gas mileage. I think it's the combination of swapping in the '92 LH module and the new upper harness. The car felt considerably quicker last night (for the record, I drank water the whole night due to current diet).
I'm sure your repairs and diet are helping but youd be surprised at how much the cool night air helps also
Hope GSXR doesn't see your statement about cool night air helping increase power levels ...
Hope GSXR doesn't see your statement about cool night air helping increase power levels ...
Maybe Dave's butt dyno is reading wrong as it gets older and more warn out ?
