The Mercedes-Benz E-Class, a symbol of luxury and engineering, underwent a significant redesign for the 1996 model year, setting new standards in the automotive world. For those considering a classic like the 1998 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, understanding its safety features is crucial. This article delves into the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) crash test rating for the E Class 1998 Mercedes Benz, specifically models manufactured between January 1997 and February 2000.
The IIHS evaluated a 1997 Mercedes-Benz E 420, a representative model from this generation, conducting a 40 mph frontal offset crash test. This test is designed to assess how well the vehicle protects occupants in a common type of serious accident. The rating applies to all e class 1998 mercedes benz models built within the specified timeframe, as these vehicles incorporated structural enhancements to improve frontal crash protection. It’s important to note that later 2000 E-Class models, produced after January 2000, had further structural changes and are not covered by this specific rating. Vehicle manufacturing dates can be found on the certification label, typically located on or near the driver’s side door.
The 1998 Mercedes-Benz E-Class achieved an overall evaluation of “Acceptable” (A) from the IIHS in this frontal offset crash test. A deeper look into the results reveals specific strengths and weaknesses in its safety performance.
In terms of structural integrity, the e class 1998 mercedes benz demonstrated robust construction. The safety cage was rated “Good” (G), the highest possible rating, indicating that the vehicle’s structure effectively maintained the occupant survival space during the crash.
For driver injury measures, the 1998 Mercedes-Benz E-Class also performed admirably. Ratings for head/neck, chest, and leg/foot (both left and right) were all “Good” (G). This signifies a low risk of significant injuries to these critical body regions in a similar frontal crash scenario for the e class 1998 mercedes benz.
However, the evaluation of driver restraints and dummy kinematics revealed a “Poor” (P) rating. The IIHS noted that dummy movement was not well-controlled during the crash. Specifically, the dummy’s head hit the window sill during rebound, and there was excessive upward movement of the steering wheel. Furthermore, the driver door opened late in the crash sequence. While this door opening did not significantly alter dummy movement in this particular test, the IIHS emphasized that it is an undesirable outcome. In real-world crashes, a door opening could lead to partial or complete occupant ejection, significantly increasing the risk of injury.
Technical measurements from the crash test provide further insights. Footwell intrusion measurements ranged from 13 to 19 cm, while instrument panel rearward movement was between 3 and 5 cm. Steering column movement was recorded at 10 cm upward and 3 cm rearward. The A-pillar rearward movement measured 9 cm. These intrusion measurements are crucial in understanding the extent of deformation and potential leg and foot injuries.
Driver injury measures, recorded by sensors on the crash test dummy, showed a Head Injury Criterion (HIC-15) of 305 and peak G-force at hard head contact of 29g. Neck tension was 2.0 kN, and chest maximum compression was 35 mm. Femur forces and tibia indices were also within acceptable limits.
In conclusion, the IIHS crash test of the 1998 Mercedes-Benz E-Class reveals a vehicle with strong structural integrity and good occupant protection in a frontal offset crash. The “Good” ratings for structure and key injury measures are positive indicators of safety for the e class 1998 mercedes benz. However, the “Poor” rating for driver restraints and the issue of door opening are notable concerns. Potential buyers of a 1998 Mercedes-Benz E-Class should consider these findings as part of their overall vehicle assessment.
