Mercedes-Benz is well-known for its engineering and the prestige of its brand, but it can also lay claim to a history of naming confusion. The "E" designation first appeared on 1950s Mercedes as shorthand for Einspritzung--fuel injection to the English-speakers among us. It continued as a part of various model designations for a number of years. Then, in 1994, Mercedes began to rename its series cars using letter prefixes. At that time, the updated 300E model was named E320, and the modern E-Class was born.
The cars of the E-Class fall into the midsize luxury category and have a well-earned reputation for stylish interiors, advanced technology, solid build, safety and, of course, luxury. In Europe, where the durable diesel versions of the cars are frequently employed as taxis, the automobile's image isn't quite as upscale as it is stateside. But while the car's persona may differ somewhat in various parts of the world, Mercedes E-Class automobiles are nevertheless held in high esteem.
The first all-new E-Class Mercedes came to the U.S. market for the 1996 model year. Offerings included a rugged diesel, an upgraded 3.2-liter version of the inline six that had powered many 300E Mercedes, and a 275-horsepower V-8 for the top-of-the-line E420. An AMG version claimed the top rung on the E-Class performance ladder in '99 with 349 horsepower. The car's styling was somewhat of a departure for the marquee, with a sleeker shape and four ellipsoid headlights, and it helped carve out a design future for the brand's sedans.
In 2003, Mercedes-Benz took another forward step in the styling department with a rising beltline that gave the car a ready-to-pounce look. More important, perhaps, were the efficient and clean E320 BlueTEC diesel sedan, the 382-horsepower E550 sedan, and the outrageously quick 507-horsepower E63 AMG.
The next E-Class debuts in 2009 and features a very sculpted look, a 7-speed automatic trans, eleven airbags, and a host of other refinements.
