The Mercedes-Benz E-Class has long been recognized as the backbone of the Mercedes-Benz brand, particularly in the American market. Consistently ranked as a benchmark in the midsize luxury car segment, the E-Class continues to expand its model range. The 2011 Mercedes-Benz E550 Cabriolet stands as a testament to this expansion, bringing open-top driving pleasure to the esteemed E-Class lineup. Let’s delve into what makes this E-Class Cabriolet a compelling choice for those seeking luxury and performance with the wind in their hair.
Elegant Design and Convertible Sophistication
The transition from the E-Class Coupe to the 2011 Mercedes-Benz E550 Cabriolet is seamless and visually striking. The cabriolet retains the coupe’s expressive lines and muscular rear haunches, elements that translate beautifully to the open-top format. By removing the fixed roof from this elegantly sculpted two-door, Mercedes-Benz has amplified the drama and allure, creating what they aptly describe as a four-seat, four-season convertible. This design philosophy aims to offer both aesthetic appeal and year-round usability, distinguishing it in the luxury convertible market.
Just like the Audi A5 Cabrio, Mercedes-Benz opted for a traditional soft top for the E550 Cabriolet rather than a retractable hardtop. However, this is no ordinary ragtop. Constructed with three layers, the soft top excels in sound insulation, rivaling the quietness of a fixed roof coupe when closed. The fully automatic operation of the top is remarkably swift, opening or closing in approximately 20 seconds. This operation can even be performed while driving at speeds up to 25 miles per hour, adding convenience to spontaneous open-air moments.
Innovative Features: AIRCAP and AIRSCARF
Mercedes-Benz is synonymous with innovation, and the E550 Cabriolet is no exception. A standout feature is the AIRCAP automatic wind deflector system. Operated by the driver, AIRCAP comprises two main components: a deflector that extends from the windshield header and a windscreen that rises behind the rear seat headrests. This ingenious system works by redirecting airflow over the rear passenger area. Coupled with the windscreen, AIRCAP effectively minimizes wind buffeting within the cabin. This allows for comfortable conversations between front and rear passengers even at highway speeds, a significant advantage for a convertible designed for four occupants.
Further enhancing the E-Cabriolet’s four-season capability is the enhanced AIRSCARF system. This neck-level heating system integrates air outlets beneath the front headrests, gently blowing warm air onto the necks of front occupants. During testing, the AIRSCARF system proved remarkably effective, making top-down driving in late winter not just tolerable but genuinely enjoyable. These features showcase Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to extending the usability of their convertibles beyond just warm weather.
Performance and Driving Dynamics of the E550
Mechanically, the E-Class Cabriolet closely mirrors the coupe. While the E350 variant houses a 3.5-liter V6 engine, the focus here is the potent 2011 Benz E550. It boasts a robust 5.5-liter V8 engine, delivering an impressive 382 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. Both engine options are paired with a smooth and responsive seven-speed automatic transmission with manual-mode functionality. Despite its all-season aspirations, the E-Class Cabriolet remains a rear-wheel-drive vehicle, foregoing an all-wheel-drive system.
On the test track, the 550 Cabriolet demonstrated exhilarating performance. It surged from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 5.1 seconds and completed the quarter-mile sprint in 13.6 seconds at 105 mph. Remarkably, despite the added weight of approximately 120 pounds compared to the coupe, the Cabriolet’s performance figures are closely aligned. The V8 engine provides abundant power across the rev range, and gear shifts are both rapid and seamless, contributing to a refined yet sporty driving experience.
The E Cabriolet also maintains the structural integrity expected of the E-Class lineage. It feels remarkably solid and exhibits torsional stiffness comparable to the hardtop coupe. Utilizing a familiar front strut suspension and rear multi-link setup, the convertible sacrifices nothing in terms of agility and responsiveness. Braking performance is equally commendable; average stopping distances from 60 to 0 mph were recorded at just 123 feet with unwavering stability.
On public roads, the E550 Cabriolet continues to impress, feeling as composed and agile as its E-Class counterparts. It masterfully blends an engaging driving experience with a supremely comfortable ride, devoid of rattles or cowl shake often associated with convertibles. The only minor imperfection noted was a slight vibration in the steering wheel at higher speeds, a detail that hardly detracts from the overall driving enjoyment.
Interior Luxury and Technology
The four-seat cabin of the E550 Cabriolet seamlessly integrates traditional Mercedes-Benz luxury with a touch of sporty character, mirroring the coupe’s interior ambiance. Burl walnut trim and a dark surround for the five-gauge instrument cluster immediately capture attention, exuding sophistication. The standard front seats are well-bolstered and upholstered in weather-resistant leather, featuring 10-way power adjustability and 4-way lumbar support.
Advanced safety technology is a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz, and the 2011 E550 Cabriolet includes Attention Assist, a system that alerts the driver if drowsiness is detected. Beyond the standard airbag complement, the Cabriolet adds front pelvic airbags and a driver’s knee airbag, further enhancing occupant protection.
Standard equipment also includes Mercedes-Benz’s COMAND interface, which manages the audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, and available navigation functionalities. While intuitive and feature-rich, some users may find a slight learning curve to fully master all its capabilities.
Practicality and Space Considerations
Similar to the coupe, rear legroom in the Cabriolet is somewhat limited, making it best suited for smaller adults or shorter journeys. However, for its class, it remains reasonably practical. Unlike the Audi A5 Cabriolet, the rear seats do not fold down, but the E550 Cabriolet compensates with a useful pass-through to the trunk, enhancing cargo-carrying versatility.
Thanks to the decision to employ a soft top, the trunk space is surprisingly generous for a convertible. Offering 13.8 cubic feet of cargo capacity with the top raised, it only slightly trails the coupe’s volume and remains adequate even when the top is lowered. This practicality further reinforces the E550 Cabriolet’s appeal as a four-season vehicle.
Fuel Economy and Pricing
Mercedes-Benz estimates fuel economy figures for the E550 Cabriolet at 15 mpg city and 23 mpg highway, requiring premium fuel. In real-world driving conditions during testing, the E550 returned a respectable 20.1 miles per gallon in a mixed driving loop.
The starting price for the 2011 E550 Cabriolet was $65,675, positioning it as a premium offering within the luxury convertible segment. While representing a significant investment, the price reflects the vehicle’s comprehensive package of luxury, performance, innovation, and open-top driving enjoyment.
Conclusion: A World-Class Convertible
Taking a world-class coupe and removing its roof results in, unsurprisingly, a world-class convertible. The 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet, particularly in E550 guise, delivers the same high caliber of presence, technology, amenities, and driving prowess as its coupe sibling. Adding to this the innovative AIRCAP and AIRSCARF systems, the 2011 Mercedes-Benz E550 Cabriolet unequivocally elevates the benchmark for luxury convertibles, offering an unparalleled blend of open-air exhilaration and refined sophistication. For those seeking a luxurious and capable convertible that transcends seasonal limitations, the 2011 Benz E550 Cabriolet remains a compelling and timeless choice.
Specifications
- Engine: 5.5-Liter V8
- Horsepower: 382
- Torque: 391 Lb Feet
- 0-60 MPH: 5.1 Seconds
- 1/4 Mile: 13.6 Seconds @ 105 MPH
- 60-0 MPH: 123 Feet
- EPA: 15 MPG City/ 23 MPG Highway
- Mixed Loop: 20.1 MPG
