THE Mercedes-Benz E 50 AMG (W210) is the second legitimate child * , born of the relationship between Mercedes-Benz and AMG — the first was the Mercedes-Benz C 36 AMG. As you know, until 1990 AMG was 100% independent from Mercedes-Benz. It was only from that year onwards that relations between these two brands began to officially tighten.
A path that culminated in the acquisition of the entire capital of AMG by Daimler AG (owner of Mercedes-Benz) in 2005. Since then they have never been separated...
Out of wedlock, some interesting models were born, like the Hammer and the Red Pig — and others, which AMG will certainly not like to remember. But within the marriage, one of the first was the Mercedes-Benz E 50 AMG (W210), launched on the market in 1997.
Why remember it?
Look at him. The Mercedes-Benz E 50 AMG is the perfect example of the transition from the traditional and classic Mercedes-Benz of the 1980s to the more modern, technological and dynamic Mercedes-Benz of the 21st century. For the first time in the E-Class, square shapes began to be abandoned in favor of more rounded shapes. Keeping, even so, all the Mercedes-Benz DNA.
Aesthetics aside, there are things that don't change. Even back then, the models born under the AMG mantle were something special — even today the “one man, one engine” principle is still in force at Mercedes-AMG, which is like saying: there is a person responsible for each engine. Watch this video:
In terms of performance, the first Mercedes-Benz with the AMG signature, rather than looking for overwhelming performance on the track, were focused on offering a comfortable driving experience on the road, while at the same time making the driver feel "powerful".
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This feeling of power came directly from the engine. 5.0 Atmospheric V8, capable of developing 347 hp of power and 480 Nm of maximum torque at 3750 rpm . More than enough numbers to reach the 250 km/h maximum speed (electronically limited). Later, in 1999, the evolution of this model appeared, the E 55 AMG.
On the technical sheet, the gains seem timid — power rose 8 hp and maximum torque 50 Nm — but on the road the conversation was different. In addition to these mechanical changes, AMG also made improvements to the suspension geometry to ensure more correct dynamic behavior. More than 12 000 units of this model were sold, a very expressive value.
Inside we find, for me, one of the most elegant interiors in the car industry. A perfectly arranged console, with straight lines, aided by impeccable assembly and the best quality materials. Only the combination of colors was not very happy...
Without a doubt, a happy marriage that has borne excellent fruit. And the best part is that the story continues to this day. The family continues to grow and we have already tested one of the most recent «children» of this relationship.
* Before this E 50 AMG, Mercedes-Benz marketed an E 36 AMG version, but it had a very limited production. So limited that we decided not to consider it.
Are there any models you want to remember? Leave us your suggestion in the comments box.
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About “Remember this one?”. It is the new line of Razão Automóvel dedicated to models and versions that somehow stood out. We like to remember the machines that once made us dream. Join us on this journey through time, weekly here at Razão Automóvel.