Acquiring a Mercedes Benz E55 AMG is often the start of an intriguing journey, as one owner discovered when his newly purchased beast required an immediate transmission replacement. As documented in this video, the E55’s introduction to its new custodian was less than smooth, necessitating a visit to Wincos in San Francisco, a repair shop highly recommended for their service. Despite the used transmission coming with a 90-day guarantee, the mileage was, shall we say, a topic of amusement for Mr. Winco. Undeterred, the owner decided to put the E55 through its paces, embarking on back-to-back week-long trips to Los Angeles and Monterey, culminating in the prestigious Pebble Beach event. Sprinkled with daily driving duties, the odometer clicked past 2532 miles, a distance sufficient to forge a solid first impression of this iconic performance sedan.
Drawing parallels to a “Wagnerian motor” as initially described before, the Mercedes Benz E55 AMG delivers a symphony of power. Cruising late at night with the sunroof open, the engine’s roar resonates with a primal energy, making even Virgin Steele feel right at home in its presence. While perhaps not boasting the aristocratic pedigree of Earl Howe’s Pebble Beach winner or the villainous aura of Hugo Drax’s SSK, the E55 commands a similar gravitas, coupled with the raw thrust reminiscent of legendary Mercedes models like the W25.
The initial feeling of a luxurious limousine fused with a potent hotrod engine only intensifies with seat time. The Mercedes Benz E55 AMG isn’t incapable in corners, but its true essence lies in the exhilarating surge of power waiting to be unleashed. The transmission, while offering a somewhat unintuitive left/right switchable operation, becomes almost secondary to the engine’s overwhelming torque. A mere tap of the throttle renders downshifts unnecessary, as the E55 effortlessly gathers momentum with remarkable speed. However, the transmission’s reluctance to engine brake means the brakes can bear the brunt of deceleration, a factor to be mindful of during enthusiastic driving.
The traction control system (TCS), surprisingly well-calibrated for its age, permits a degree of playful slip before gently intervening. A prominent warning light on the dash serves as an early indicator of traction loss, ensuring that TCS intervention is far less intrusive than systems found in some modern performance cars, such as the Bullitt Mustang. Switching off the TCS for some controlled exploration in a deserted dirt parking lot reveals a chassis with balanced dynamics and predictable breakaway characteristics, perfect for some “dumb fun.” The E55’s burnout capabilities are undeniable, perhaps explaining Lewis Hamilton’s past ticketing incidents.
Beyond its performance prowess, the Mercedes Benz E55 AMG excels as a long-distance cruiser. Its limousine-like comfort makes freeway miles melt away, whether effortlessly gliding along the winding curves of Highway 101 or navigating the stop-and-go traffic of the 405. The owner noted arriving in Los Angeles significantly less fatigued compared to similar journeys in a Bullitt Mustang. The rear seats offer generous space, noticeably surpassing not only a 3 Series but even a 5 Series in terms of legroom. A German acquaintance aptly summarized the W210 Mercedes Benz generation’s reputation in Germany: “…the W210 Mercedes was significantly bigger, but you gave up the driving pleasure of the E39 Five Series….” – a trade-off many considered worthwhile for the added space and comfort.
Despite the enjoyable driving experience, owning an older performance car like the Mercedes Benz E55 AMG inevitably comes with maintenance considerations. While steering tie rods were replaced and alignment performed, a persistent “clonk” sound when traversing kerbs suggests ongoing suspension or shock bushing issues. The financial aspect of repairs is less daunting than the time and effort required, often deterring owners from maintaining older vehicles. The previous owner’s sentiment rings true: “It’s reached a point where it needs more time and money than I am ready to give it.”
Further adding to the list of minor issues, the rear headliner exhibited further loosening, particularly near the passenger side A and B pillars, exacerbated by driving with the window down.
Remembering the headlight concerns previously mentioned, extended night driving revealed the E55’s headlights to be disappointingly dim, especially on dip beam. Research revealed these to be early xenon units, an option on the E430 and standard on the Mercedes Benz E55 AMG, quickly superseded by projector beam technology. Most W210 models utilized halogen headlights, and component interchangeability is limited. Winco’s wry comment, “Oh, thousand dollar for lights..” underscored the potential expense of replacements. While lens splitting and replacement was offered, the risk of subsequent leaks led to opting for a polishing treatment of the existing lenses as a more immediate solution.
During a spirited driving session pushing towards autobahn speeds, plumes of blue smoke emerged, triggering momentary anxiety about potential engine failure. Contemplating emergency parking locations – the pessimistic Travelodge carpark versus the optimistic gas station, ultimately settling on the Burger King for immediate sustenance and contemplation.
Fortified with root beer and a burger, a cautious restart in 103-degree heat revealed stable radiator water and oil levels, the latter consistent since acquisition. Proceeding gingerly towards Los Angeles, no further alarming symptoms surfaced until an underhood inspection upon arrival uncovered a minor oil leak at the front of one of the heads. While seemingly pre-existing, fresh oil on the block indicated a degree of recent leakage.
Approximately 1200 miles later, during Pebble Beach week, a “Check Oil” warning message illuminated intermittently while traversing Lauralees Grade. Despite oil levels appearing normal upon inspection, the warning cycle persisted. Online forums suggest a likely culprit: a faulty oil level sensor. However, addressing this requires oil pan removal, adding complexity to the repair.
Temperature gauge readings fluctuated between 80 and 100 degrees Celsius, a range deemed broad. Recalling a similar issue resolved in a Bullitt Mustang by sensor replacement, a similar approach for the E55 is under consideration, pending further forum research.
Rust along the sunroof lip also warrants investigation.
These accumulated minor issues paint a picture of why many Mercedes Benz E55 AMG models in similar condition face being dismantled for parts. Yet, despite these foibles, the overriding impression remains the E55’s remarkable livability and inherent appeal. While interior materials might appear understated, after 2500 miles and 132,000 on the odometer, the cabin retains a premium feel, especially when contrasted with cars like the Fiesta ST.
The blend of comfort, ease of daily use, and the formidable engine makes enduring the inevitable wave of minor repairs a worthwhile endeavor. Hopefully.
