The 1999 Mercedes-Benz E-Class marked a significant point in the evolution of the esteemed German automaker’s mid-size luxury sedan. Following its complete redesign in 1996, the ’99 model year benefited from refinements and carried forward the innovations that set this generation, known as the W210, apart. This iteration of the E-Class built upon its reputation for safety, luxury, and performance, appealing to discerning buyers in the late 1990s. Let’s delve into what made the 1999 Benz E Class a standout vehicle in its class.
Engine Options and Performance of the 1999 E-Class
For the 1999 model year, Mercedes-Benz offered a range of engine choices to suit different driving preferences and performance needs. The entry-level E-Class, the E320, featured a newly introduced V6 engine. This powerplant replaced the previous inline-six, bringing with it improvements in both power and fuel efficiency. The 3.2-liter V6 produced a robust 221 horsepower and 232 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided ample power for daily driving and offered brisk acceleration, thanks to its broad torque curve, ensuring responsive performance in various driving conditions.
For those seeking even greater fuel economy, the 1999 E-Class offered the E300 Turbodiesel. This model featured a turbocharged diesel engine that generated 174 horsepower and an impressive 244 pound-feet of torque. The турбодизель engine not only delivered strong performance but also appealed to environmentally conscious buyers with its enhanced fuel efficiency compared to gasoline counterparts.
At the higher end of the performance spectrum, the E430 boasted a potent V8 engine. This 4.3-liter V8 churned out 275 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, offering a significant step up in power and acceleration. For enthusiasts craving top-tier performance, the lineup included the E55 AMG. This high-performance variant was equipped with a 5.5-liter V8 engine that unleashed a remarkable 349 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. The E55 AMG could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5.5 seconds, placing it firmly in sports sedan territory.
Safety and Technology Features: A Focus on Innovation
The 1999 Benz E Class was not just about performance; it was also a showcase of Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to safety and technological innovation. A suite of advanced safety systems came standard, highlighting the vehicle’s focus on occupant protection. Antilock brakes (ABS) were standard, providing enhanced braking control in emergency situations. Furthermore, the E-Class was equipped with Brake Assist, a pioneering system that could detect emergency braking based on the speed and force applied to the brake pedal. In an emergency, Brake Assist would automatically apply full braking force, potentially reducing stopping distances and mitigating accidents.
Traction control, branded as ASR (Acceleration Skid Control), was another standard safety feature. This system monitored wheel speeds and could detect wheelspin. If wheelspin was detected, ASR would selectively apply brakes to the spinning wheel or reduce engine power to regain traction, particularly useful on slippery surfaces. This system effectively minimized lateral motion and helped maintain directional stability.
The innovative BabySmart recognition system was also standard in the 1999 E-Class. This feature was designed to enhance child safety by automatically deactivating the front passenger airbag when a Mercedes-Benz BabySmart child seat was properly installed. This prevented potential injury to a child from airbag deployment in a collision.
Mercedes-Benz also introduced the SmartKey infrared key fob in the 1999 E-Class. Replacing traditional metal keys, the SmartKey used infrared technology to communicate with the vehicle. It transmitted a unique code to unlock the steering column and start the engine. After each use, the SmartKey reprogrammed itself with a new code, adding a layer of security against unauthorized access.
Interior Comfort and Ergonomics
Inside the 1999 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, occupants were treated to a luxurious and comfortable environment. The interior design prioritized ergonomics, though some found the numerous controls, marked with Mercedes’ signature small icons, could be initially challenging to decipher. Door-mounted seat controls offered convenient adjustability. Standard features included dual-zone climate control, allowing customized temperature settings for the driver and passenger. A telescoping steering column provided further adjustability for optimal driving position. Wood trim accents added a touch of elegance to the cabin, and a premium sound system with eight speakers delivered high-quality audio entertainment.
The 1999 E-Class: A Versatile and Intelligent Choice
The 1999 Mercedes-Benz E-Class solidified its position as a versatile and intelligent choice in the mid-luxury segment. Available as a four-door sedan and wagon (though the article focuses on the sedan), the E-Class catered to families and individuals seeking a blend of performance, comfort, safety, and advanced technology. Its range of engine options, from fuel-efficient diesel to high-performance V8s, ensured there was an E-Class model to meet diverse needs.
The E-Class represented more than just luxury; it embodied intelligent engineering and a proactive approach to safety. Its array of safety features, combined with its comfortable and well-appointed interior, made it a compelling alternative to the increasingly popular, yet often less efficient, sport utility vehicles of the time. The 1999 Mercedes Benz E Class conveyed a message of sophisticated success and intelligent purchasing, appealing to buyers who valued both prestige and practicality. It remains a respected model in Mercedes-Benz’s history, embodying the brand’s core values of luxury, safety, and innovation.
