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Mercedes-Benz R-class Long (V251) R 500 V8 (388 Hp) 4MATIC G-TRONIC
Overall Rating
Mercedes-Benz R-class:
The Mercedes-Benz R-Class is a mid-size luxury MPV introduced by Mercedes-Benz in 2005 for the 2006 model year. Following the success of the smaller A- and B-Class MPVs, Mercedes in collaboration with coachbuilder Stola presented a concept vehicle, Vision GST , at the 2002 Detroit Auto Show and a second one, Vision R presented at the 2004 Detroit Auto Show, subsequently introducing the production version at 2005 New York International Auto Show. The R-Class was manufactured in Vance, Alabama until 2015 when its production was shifted to Mishawaka, Indiana for a smaller volume production until 2017....(Read more on Wikipedia)
Long (V251) Overview:
Mercedes-Benz R-class (Long (V251)). With 530 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. At around 2265 kg, it’s on the heavier side. All‑wheel drive provides excellent grip, ideal for off‑road use. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 6.3 s). The top speed reaches 250 km/h. A car with an extended rear cargo area, combining passenger comfort with increased storage. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
R 500 V8 (388 Hp) 4MATIC G-TRONIC Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Strong, effortless acceleration with a refined V8, making highway overtakes a breeze and providing ample power.
Fuel Economy
High fuel consumption is a significant drawback, particularly with 4MATIC, making it costly to run.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Exceptional interior space and comfort for all passengers
- • Luxurious and well-appointed cabin materials
- • Smooth ride quality, especially with optional air suspension
- • Wide range of powerful and efficient engine options (especially diesels)
- • Available 4MATIC all-wheel-drive for enhanced traction
- • Unique styling that stands out from traditional SUVs/minivans
Cons:
- • Polarizing exterior design not universally appealing
- • Large dimensions can make city driving and parking challenging
- • Higher fuel consumption for petrol V6 and V8 engines
- • Potential reliability concerns with certain engines (M272 balance shaft) and air suspension
- • Complex electronics can lead to costly repairs
- • High depreciation on the used market, but also high maintenance costs
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Long (V251): 2007 - 2009).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model: | R-class |
| Generation: | Long (V251) |
| Modification (Engine): | R 500 V8 (388 Hp) 4MATIC G-TRONIC |
| Start of production: | 2008 |
| End of production: | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 388 Hp @ 6000 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 71 Hp/l [Same length.] |
| Torque: | 530 Nm @ 2800-4800 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M 273.963 More details about the engine M 273.963 |
| Engine displacement: | 5461 |
| Number of cylinders: | 8 |
| Engine configuration: | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity: | 9 l |
| Coolant: | 10.1 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 98 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 90.5 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10.7:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 18.2-18.4 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 9.8-10.0 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 12.9-13.1 l/100 km |
| Emission standard: | Euro 5 |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 6.3 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 250 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 5.8 kg/Hp, 171.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 4.3 kg/Nm, 234 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 6 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 2265 |
| Max. weight: | 2920 |
| Max. roof load: | 100 kg |
| Max load: | 655 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 2385 l |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%): | 2100 kg |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 80 l |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes: | 750 kg |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 5157 mm mm [Same length.] |
| Width: | 1922 mm mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1674 mm mm [Same height.] |
| Wheelbase: | 3215 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1661 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1651 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 12.4 m [above average] |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4x4) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Gearbox type | G-TRONIC |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 255/55 R19 W |
| Wheel rims size | 19 |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
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