The Mercedes-Benz E-Class, a name synonymous with luxury and performance, has long been a favorite among discerning drivers. For those considering a pre-owned model, particularly the 1999 Mercedes Benz E Class, understanding its safety features is paramount. This article delves into the safety ratings of the 1997-2000 Mercedes-Benz E-Class models, providing a comprehensive overview based on rigorous crash testing.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) conducted a frontal offset crash test on a 1997 Mercedes-Benz E 420, a model representative of the E-Class generation from 1997 to 2000 built after January 1997 and before February 2000. These models incorporated specific structural enhancements designed to improve occupant protection in frontal collisions. It’s important to note that these ratings are specific to models manufactured within this date range and do not apply to later 2000 E-Class models produced after January 2000, which featured further structural modifications. You can verify your vehicle’s manufacturing date on the certification label typically located on or near the driver’s side door.
Deciphering the Crash Test Performance of the 1999 Mercedes Benz E Class
The IIHS evaluation provides a detailed breakdown of the 1999 Mercedes Benz E Class‘s crashworthiness. Let’s examine the key findings:
Overall Evaluation: The 1997 Mercedes-Benz E 420 received an Acceptable (A) overall evaluation in the frontal offset crash test.
Structural Integrity: A crucial aspect of crash safety is the structural integrity of the vehicle. The 1999 Mercedes Benz E Class demonstrated Good (G) performance in “Structure and safety cage,” indicating that the vehicle’s structure effectively maintained the occupant survival space during the frontal crash.
Driver Injury Measures: Protecting the driver from injuries is a top priority in vehicle safety. The 1999 Mercedes Benz E Class performed admirably in mitigating potential injuries:
- Head/Neck: Rated Good (G), signifying a low risk of head and neck injuries.
- Chest: Rated Good (G), indicating good protection for the driver’s chest area.
- Leg/Foot (Left & Right): Both left and right leg/foot injury measures were rated Good (G), demonstrating effective protection for the lower extremities.
Driver Restraints and Dummy Kinematics: While the 1999 Mercedes Benz E Class excelled in many areas, the driver restraints and dummy kinematics received a Poor (P) rating. The IIHS noted that the dummy movement was not well-controlled. During the rebound phase of the crash, the dummy’s head struck the window sill. Additionally, there was excessive upward movement of the steering wheel. A significant concern was the driver door opening during the crash. Although this door opening did not significantly impact dummy movement in this specific test, the IIHS emphasizes that it is a serious issue. In real-world crashes, a door opening could lead to partial or complete occupant ejection, increasing the risk of severe injuries.
Action shot captured during the IIHS frontal offset crash test of the 1997 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, demonstrating the forces at play during a collision.
Despite roof rail buckling, the structural integrity of the 1997 Mercedes-Benz E-Class cabin is maintained, ensuring survival space for occupants, although the open driver door detracts from overall performance.
Close-up view of the energy-absorbing padding implemented in the footwell of the 1997 Mercedes-Benz E-Class to minimize leg injuries in severe frontal collisions.
Image illustrating the open driver-side door of the 1997 Mercedes-Benz E-Class after the crash test, emphasizing the risk of occupant ejection in certain accident scenarios.
Technical Measurements: Intrusion and Injury Data
Detailed technical measurements from the crash test provide further insights into the 1999 Mercedes Benz E Class‘s performance.
Occupant Compartment Intrusion (Driver Side):
| Evaluation criteria | Measurement (cm) |
|---|---|
| Footrest | 14 |
| Left Footwell | 19 |
| Center Footwell | 17 |
| Right Footwell | 13 |
| Brake Pedal | 15 |
| Instrument Panel Rearward (Left) | 5 |
| Instrument Panel Rearward (Right) | 3 |
| Steering Column Upward | 10 |
| Steering Column Rearward | 3 |
| A-Pillar Rearward | 9 |
These measurements indicate the extent of intrusion into the driver’s side occupant compartment, providing data on how well the structure resisted deformation in critical areas.
Driver Injury Measures:
| Evaluation criteria | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Head | |
| HIC-15 | 305 |
| Peak gs at hard contact | 29 |
| Neck | |
| Tension (kN) | 2.0 |
| Extension bending moment (Nm) | 19 |
| Maximum Nij | 0.37 |
| Chest | |
| Maximum compression (mm) | 35 |
| Legs | |
| Femur force – Left (kN) | 5.5 |
| Femur force – Right (kN) | 3.2 |
| Knee displacement – Left (mm) | 5 |
| Knee displacement – Right (mm) | 2 |
| Maximum tibia index – Left | 0.33 |
| Maximum tibia index – Right | 0.43 |
| Tibia axial force – Left (kN) | 0.6 |
| Tibia axial force – Right (kN) | 0.6 |
| Foot Acceleration (g) | |
| Left | 76 |
| Right | 68 |
These technical measurements offer a deeper understanding of the forces and potential injury risks experienced by the driver dummy during the crash test. The data shows generally low injury measures for head, neck, chest and legs, aligning with the “Good” ratings in those categories.
Conclusion: Safety Considerations for the 1999 Mercedes Benz E Class
The 1999 Mercedes Benz E Class, as represented by the 1997-2000 models built within the specified timeframe, offers a generally good level of frontal crash protection, achieving “Good” ratings for structural integrity and driver injury measures for head, neck, chest, and legs. However, the “Poor” rating for driver restraints due to the door opening issue is a notable concern.
When considering a 1999 Mercedes Benz E Class, or any model within this generation, it’s essential to be aware of this potential weakness. While the vehicle performs well in protecting occupants from direct impact forces, the risk of door opening and potential ejection should be factored into your safety assessment. Always ensure that vehicle doors are properly closed before driving and that seatbelts are correctly fastened for optimal safety in any vehicle, including the 1999 Mercedes Benz E Class.
