The Mercedes-Benz E-Class has long been synonymous with luxury, performance, and innovation. For those seeking a blend of these qualities in a pre-owned vehicle, the 1997 Mercedes Benz E420 stands out as a particularly compelling option. This model year marked a significant point in the E-Class lineage, introducing a powerful V8 engine into the newly designed W210 chassis.
Prior to 1996, the E-Class, known internally as the W124, represented Mercedes’ commitment to robust engineering and classic styling. However, 1996 ushered in a new era with the W210 E-Class, instantly recognizable by its distinctive quad-headlight design. While the initial W210 lineup featured the E320 with an inline-six engine, 1997 saw the return of V8 power to the E-Class in the form of the 1997 Mercedes Benz E420.
The heart of the 1997 Mercedes Benz E420 is the M119 V8 engine. This 4.2-liter powerplant is a sophisticated piece of engineering, boasting dual overhead camshafts per bank (quad-cam), 32 valves, and generating approximately 275 horsepower. This engine is renowned for its smooth power delivery and robust performance, offering a significantly more dynamic driving experience compared to its six-cylinder counterpart.
Coupled with the M119 engine in the 1997 Mercedes Benz E420 was the then-new 722.6 five-speed automatic transmission. This transmission is known for its smooth and responsive shifts, further enhancing the driving pleasure of the E420. The combination of the powerful V8 and the advanced transmission made the 1997 Mercedes Benz E420 a genuinely “lively ride,” as described by enthusiasts.
It’s worth noting that the 1997 Mercedes Benz E420 was succeeded by the E430 in 1998. While both models share the same W210 chassis and offer V8 performance, they differ in their engines. The E430 replaced the M119 with the newer M113 V8. The M113, while still a V8, is a slightly different design, featuring single overhead camshafts per bank and 24 valves. Interestingly, despite the different engine architecture, the power output remained similar between the E420 and E430.
In terms of ownership and maintenance, both the 1997 Mercedes Benz E420 and the E430 are generally considered reliable. The M119 engine in the E420 is known for its durability, although it may require attention to oil tubes over time. The M113 in the E430 is susceptible to harmonic balancer issues, but this is typically a straightforward repair if addressed promptly. Overall, the M113 is often perceived as slightly less expensive to maintain in the long run due to longer service intervals and less frequent spark plug changes.
Ultimately, choosing between a 1997 Mercedes Benz E420 and a subsequent E430 often comes down to personal preference. For those who appreciate the sophisticated engineering of the quad-cam M119 V8, the 1997 Mercedes Benz E420 offers a unique blend of classic Mercedes-Benz engineering and W210-era styling. For everyday driving, the performance difference between the two is negligible, making either a solid choice for a discerning driver seeking a reliable and powerful luxury sedan.
