2003 Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG W211

• The 2003 Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG W211 introduced a supercharged V8, delivering 469 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque.

• Its understated design conceals performance that rivals contemporary supercars.

• Combines luxury and speed, offering a refined yet exhilarating driving experience.

Refined Design With a Hint of Aggression

From a distance, the W211 E-Class doesn’t scream performance. It’s familiar. Twin oval headlights, flowing character lines, a poised stance. But look closer. The subtle body kit, quad exhausts, and discreet badging start to give it away. AMG knew what they were doing—this one was for those who didn’t need to show off, but wanted the firepower when the opportunity arose.

Even the 18-inch wheels feel more businesslike than brash. There’s confidence in the restraint, and it still works today.

Supercharged V8 Muscle

Here’s the heart of it: the M113K 5.4-liter V8, bolted to a supercharger. It cranks out 469 hp (350 kW) and 700 Nm of torque (516 lb-ft). Back in 2003, that was enough to leave most rivals scratching their heads at the next red light.

The five-speed automatic isn’t fast by today’s standards, but it knows how to handle torque. It surges—there’s no waiting around. Just a solid, immediate wall of power. AMG claimed a 0–60 mph time of around 4.2 seconds, and in real-world terms, it still feels brutally quick.

Chassis and Suspension: Comfortable With Bite

The Airmatic DC suspension does its part in keeping the ride comfortable without feeling floaty. Around town, it’s composed. Push it a little, and the damping tightens up—enough to make backroads enjoyable, if not razor sharp.

Brakes? Big ventilated discs all around, and they’re more than up to the task of scrubbing off speed quickly. The E55 isn’t a track weapon, but it’s confident and stable. On a highway, it's still among the best ways to cover distance quickly and comfortably.

Interior: Classic Benz, With an AMG Twist

Step inside, and you’re greeted with all the usual Mercedes cues from the early 2000s—lots of leather, clean switchgear, wood trim. But AMG touches things up with sportier seats, unique gauges, and a meatier steering wheel.

It’s not flashy, but it holds up. Everything feels well-made. The seats are firm but supportive, and there’s just enough visual drama to remind you you’re not in a regular E-Class.

Where It Stood, and Where It Stands Now

At launch, the E55 AMG went head-to-head with the BMW M5 (E39) and Audi RS6. In terms of straight-line performance, it held the upper hand. It was also more relaxed, easier to live with. Less fidgety than the M5, less complex than the RS6.

Today, the W211 E55 AMG is remembered fondly—for its mix of old-school V8 drama, analog feel, and daily-driver usability. It's aged well, and that M113K engine? Still respected.

Final Thoughts

The 2003 Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG W211 is one of those rare performance sedans that never really went out of style. It doesn’t shout. It just goes. Fast, quietly, with class. And sometimes, that’s exactly the point.

Technical Specifications: 2003 Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG W211

Performance

• Engine: 5.4L V8 Supercharged (M113K)

• Horsepower: 469 hp (350 kW) @ 6,100 rpm

• Torque: 516 lb-ft (700 Nm) @ 2,650 rpm

• 0–60 mph Acceleration: Approximately 4.5 seconds

• Top Speed: Electronically limited to 155 mph (250 km/h)

Body Measurements

• Length: 190.3 inches (4,834 mm)

• Width: 71.3 inches (1,811 mm)

• Height: 57.2 inches (1,453 mm)

• Wheelbase: 112.4 inches (2,854 mm)

• Curb Weight: Approximately 4,000 lbs (1,814 kg)

Powertrain

• Transmission: 5-speed automatic with AMG Speedshift

• Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive (RWD)

• Fuel Type: Premium unleaded gasoline

• Fuel Economy: 13 mpg city / 19 mpg highway / 15 mpg combined

Capacities

• Seating Capacity: 5 passengers

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 20.6 gallons (78 liters)

• Cargo Capacity: 15.9 cubic feet (450 liters)

Price

• Original MSRP (2003): $76,000

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