The E 55 AMG Estate (S210, 1998–2002) pairs AMG’s 5.4-liter M113 V8, 354 PS, with the W210-generation station wagon body. In the US, Mercedes sold the E 55 AMG as a sedan only (1999–2002). Estates built through October 2001 are legal now; the last 2001 and the 2002 cars follow month by month.
Why Americans want it
The US has wanted AMG wagons since the E 55 sedan showed up in 1999. The E 63 wagon came much later, and the E 55 Estate remains the first V8 AMG wagon: seven seats with the rear-facing bench, self-leveling rear suspension, the naturally aspirated V8 sound, and a price that is still sane in Europe.
What was never sold in the US
- Body: the Estate (S210). The US received the W210 E 55 AMG sedan only.
- Engine: M113 5.4 V8, 354 PS, roughly 391 lb-ft, same as the sedan.
- Transmission: 5-speed automatic (722.6).
- Years: 1998 to early 2002, when the W211 replaced it. Also never US: the W210 E 50 AMG sedan (1996–1997) and the E 36 AMG W210 (1997–1998).
Eligible years (25-year rule)
1998, 1999 and 2000 cars, and 2001 cars built through October, are eligible now. A car built in November or December 2001 becomes legal in November or December 2026. 2002-built Estates become eligible month by month through 2027. We confirm the build month with the Mercedes-Benz Classic data card before purchase.
What to look for
- Rust: the W210 is the rustiest modern Mercedes. Check the front spring perches, the rear arches, the tailgate, the door bottoms and under the rear bumper. A southern European car with original paint is the only kind we ship; we photograph the spring perches on every one.
- Engine: the M113 is robust. Look for oil leaks at the cam covers, and check the engine wiring harness on early cars.
- Suspension: the rear self-leveling system and the air-assisted shocks must hold height; replacement is roughly $1,500–$2,500.
- Electrics: window regulators, the key, the instrument cluster pixels and the climate control.
- Documents: Mercedes-Benz Classic data card confirming the AMG code (and the build month), service history, two keys.
Typical landed price
Europe: roughly €25,000–€45,000. Landed at Newark or Baltimore with duty at the rate in effect on entry: roughly $37,000–$63,000.
Registration notes
- California: post-1975, gasoline; CARB lab certification applies, not guaranteed.
- Fuel: gasoline.
- Title: 17-character VIN. US title from Salvage Motors LLC.
Our take
Spring perches decide everything on a W210. Find a dry-climate Estate with a clean data card and you have the best-value AMG wagon on the market. Pass on any car with repainted arches and no explanation.
FAQ
Is it the same engine as the US E 55 sedan?
Yes, the M113 5.4 V8. Parts and service are easy in the US.
Does the third-row seat come with it?
Most Estates have the rear-facing bench; we list it when present.
C 43 AMG Estate too?
Yes, the C 43 AMG Estate (S202, 1997–2000) was also never sold in the US and is fully eligible.