Road Test: 2003 Mercedes-Benz E500 Sport
By John Kiewicz
Photography by the author
For staffers on vacation or taking long weekend drives, the E500 tops the Most Wanted list. The interior is one of the most comfortable on the market, and the trunk handles an amazing amount of luggage. Our gang is split on MBZ's electronics: Some feel the car relies too much on electrogadgetry, making them feel disconnected from the car, while others embrace the technology as Mercedes leads the industry into the 21st century. The none-too-progressive, wooden-feeling brakes are the number-one gripe.
All agree that this is among the most dynamic Es to come to the U.S. in several years. Our Benz saw the service bay for the first time, receiving an oil/filter change and tire rotation. The dealer discovered the left thrust arm (or upper control arm) bushings were cracked, so he replaced the entire assembly under warranty.
FROM THE LOGBOOK
"I can't recommend unbroken stints of five hours at the wheel, but if you're so inclined, this car makes them easy."
--Kevin Smith
| Base price | $54,850 |
| Price as tested | $67,425 |
| Vehicle layout | Front engine, rwd, 4-door, 5-pass |
| Engine | 5.0L V-8, DOHC, 3 valves/cyl |
| Horsepower @ rpm | 302 @ 5600 |
| Torque @ rpm | 339 @ 2700 |
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic |
| 0-60 mph, sec | 5.8 |
| EPA mpg | 16 city/23 highway |
| Total mileage | 15,240 |
| Average test mpg | 18.8 |
| Problem areas | Cracked thrust-arm bushing |
| Non-warr cost | $0 |