Parents Are Porsche and Mercedes 500E

Are you familiar with the Mercedes W124 E-Class model called the 500E (later known as the E500)?

This W124 E-Class, the ancestor of today’s E-Class, originally came in versions like the 230E and 300E, but the 500E was created specifically to house the V8 engine from the then top-tier Mercedes sports car, the SL500.

The development of the 500E was handled by Porsche’s Weissach engineering center, and part of the production process was even carried out at Porsche’s factory until 1992. In other words, this W124 500E is a car with a wonderful lineage: father Mercedes, mother Porsche.

AMG E60

The super sedan 500E was further tuned by AMG into the E60 model, which is the focus of this report.

There are various claims about production numbers—some say it was limited to 50 units, others say 60 or even 200—but regardless, it’s undeniably an ultra-rare car.

The biggest difference lies in the engine. The original 5.0-liter V8 from the SL500 was enlarged to 6.0 liters. This boosted power from 330 hp to 381 hp, and improved 0–100 km/h acceleration from 6.1 seconds to 5.3 seconds.

Other highlights include AMG suspension, AMG exhaust, and a two-tone seat interior.

Driving the AMG E60

Closing the door after getting in, you hear a metallic “clunk” sound that you just don’t get in modern cars. It’s reminiscent of the door sound on an air-cooled Porsche, conveying the exceptional rigidity and meticulous craftsmanship. The engine starts smoothly and quietly.

This atmosphere is very similar to the R129 SL500 I used to drive.

Shifting the nostalgic zigzag gate lever into D and gently pressing the somewhat heavy accelerator, the car moves off very smoothly. It has a weighty, reassuring feel that you don’t find in today’s Mercedes, as if you’re driving inside a very solid shell.

The steering is very light at low speeds. It feels like a heavy steering wheel being well assisted. This is quite different from today’s electric power steering, with a subtle resistance and a smooth rotational feel that really stands out.

The speedometer is large and centered, with the tachometer beside it. Mercedes’ philosophy is that the engine plays a supporting role.

Even though it’s an AMG, the engine doesn’t demand attention unnecessarily. This is classic Mercedes. The engine serves purely as a power source, not distracting the driver. The large central speedometer and smaller tachometer beside it reflect this philosophy.

At low speeds, you have to consciously check the tachometer to know the engine speed. The automatic transmission shifts very smoothly without any jolts.

I wondered if the light steering might make cornering uneasy, but this is Mercedes. There’s absolutely no feeling of softness like you might find in some Japanese luxury sedans.

The steering feedback firms up, and stability increases in proportion to lateral G-forces. The car faithfully follows the driver’s commands without deviating from the intended line. Any anxiety I had before entering corners completely vanished.

The suspension, inherited from the SL, does an excellent job. The difference in ride quality between smooth pavement and rough surfaces is minimal. It’s all put together at a high level, delivering the traditional Mercedes ride comfort.

No matter the situation or driving style, Mercedes’ philosophy of safely transporting occupants with consistently high quality is strongly felt here.

Pressing the accelerator a bit on a straight stretch, the deep V8 rumble resonates pleasantly—not crude, but refined. When you kick down, the car dips slightly and then surges forward with fierce acceleration.

Of course, it’s not as fast as today’s super sedans, but it still offers more than enough power.

High-speed stability and straight-line tracking over uneven surfaces are excellent, making long-distance highway cruising a very enjoyable experience.

This Is “The Best or Nothing”

After the test drive, I took a long look at the exterior. Though it seems compact by today’s standards, it has a solid presence and looks fantastic. The linear, no-nonsense design and precise press lines, along with the 500E’s signature overfenders, give it a timeless elegance reminiscent of a classic tailored suit.

What struck me most riding this car is the over-the-top build quality typical of Mercedes. Nearly 30 years on, the body rigidity, road contact, and powerful engine remain unfaded.

The heavy accelerator and brake pedals designed with safety in mind, the intuitive buttons, and the easy-to-read speedometer—all are crafted as the ultimate “tools.”

Few manufacturers build cars with such a strong, almost stubborn philosophy of “how a car should be.” This was especially true of Mercedes in this era.

The phrase “The best or nothing” is famous as Mercedes’ corporate motto, and the AMG E60 perfectly embodies this ideal.