Final Mercedes-Benz W124 E 500 Limited on Display

Mercedes-Benz Museum presents the final W124 E 500 Limited from 1995, a rare model built with Porsche and produced in a run of 500 units. Explore its history.

The final Mercedes-Benz E 500 Limited of the W124 series — the so-called “Bandabläufer” built in 1995 — has taken center stage at the brand’s “Youngtimer” exhibition. More than just a rare car, it marks the end of an era as the last example of one of the most distinctive models in E-Class history.

Presented with only 422 kilometers on the odometer, this sedan belongs to the limited E 500 Limited series, restricted to just 500 units. When introduced in 1994, the manufacturer emphasized its exclusivity, noting that once production ended, it would never return. This particular car became the final vehicle to leave the production line.

The E 500 itself stands apart within the W124 lineup. Powered by a 5.0-liter V8 M119 producing 326 hp, it accelerates to 100 km/h in about 6.1 seconds. Despite its performance, the design remains restrained, defined mainly by widened fenders and a planted stance. This contrast earned it a reputation as a “wolf in sheep’s clothing.”

Its development adds another layer of significance. The car was engineered and assembled in cooperation with Porsche, with bodies moving between Mercedes-Benz and Porsche facilities through multiple stages. The full process took around 18 days, making it an unusual example of semi-handbuilt production in its segment.

The Limited version further reinforces its exclusivity. Buyers could choose between two colors — sapphire black or brilliant silver — along with distinctive six-spoke wheels reminiscent of the 190 E Evolution II. Inside, colored soft leather and bespoke trim elements set it apart from standard E 500 models.

Today, cars like this are regarded as collectible pieces rather than just classic sedans. Limited production, Porsche involvement, and a complex manufacturing process have made the E 500 Limited one of the most sought-after W124 variants. In total, around 10,479 units of the 500E/E500 were produced, but the final series remains the rarest.

The museum display also highlights a broader context. The model reflects the 1990s — a period when high-performance cars could remain understated while delivering comfort and refinement. In this sense, the E 500 Limited stands not only as a rare artifact, but as a clear expression of the engineering philosophy of its time.