Mercedes-Benz E-Class (2003-2009) W211

The W211 is the chassis code for the Mercedes-Benz E-Class for the model years 2003-2009. For the third generation E-Class, the W211 had gone through many changes to distinguish itself from the previous Mercedes W210 that it replaced. Coming in both sedan and wagon body styles, the W211's exterior design was sleeker and smoother, straying away from the older boxier look, but still sporting the quad-circular headlights and large front grille. Even though the W211 didn't change in dimensions compared to the W210, the wheelbase had been lengthened, thus resulting in more passenger room in the rear.

Powering the base E320 is a 3.2L naturally aspirated V6 engine that makes 221 horsepower and 232 pound-feet of torque. The higher trim level E500 received a 5.0L naturally aspirated V8 engine that put down 302 horsepower and 339lb-ft of torque. Both engine options were paired with 5-speed automatic transmissions.

When the second generation Mercedes E55 AMG debuted, it was known as the fastest production sedan in the world. Underneath the hood was a 5.5L supercharged V8 that produced 475 horsepower and 520 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels via a 5-speed automatic gearbox. The twin-screw supercharger from IHI is the same company that makes the blower for the Dodge Challenger Hellcat.

For 2006, the E-Class finally got a mid-model refresh with revised front and rear bumpers, front grille, and headlights. While the exterior was changed, the most notable upgrade came down to the new engines that were available. The E500 got a larger 5.5L naturally aspirated V8 that produced 388 horsepower - 62 more than the old 5.0L engine. Torque also increased to 391 pound-feet of torque, up from the previous 339 torque figure.

With the introduction of the Mercedes E63 AMG, the supercharged 5.5L was ditched for an all-new naturally aspirated 6.2L V8 engine that produced 514 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. Though some low-end power and torque were missed from the old supercharged engine, the new NA engine still made more power and revved higher to a 7,200 RPM redline. With a 7-speed automatic transmission, the E63 hit 0-60 MPH in a staggering 4.4 seconds, beating out the BMW M5.